2018
Outline of the National Institutes
for Cultural Heritage

CONTENTS
In FY2017, which marked the 10th
anniversary of its establishment,
the NICH adopted a new logo.
Logo concept:“Linkage”
The logo design combines knotted
cords with a shape resembling the
DNA double helix.
The “knotted cords” represent
linkage between people andcultures (i.e. cultural heritage),while the“DNA”represents linkage
between past, present and future(i.e. cultural transmission).
The logo represents the core
mission of the NICH, which is tofoster an in-depth understandingof “cultural DNA” and transmit
awareness of the importance of
cultural heritage to people all over
the world.

Cover Photos
Tokyo National Museum:
Furisode (Garment with long
sleeves), Design of a plum tree,
screens, and falcons on a whitechirimen crepe ground, Important
Cultural Property, Edo period, 18th
century
Kyoto National Museum:
Shakyamuni Rising from the Golden
Coffin, National Treasure, Heianperiod, 11th century
Nara National Museum:Embroidered Shakyamuni
Preaching, National Treasure, Nara
Period, 8th century

Message����������������������������1Ⅰ

Organization ������������������������2Ⅱ

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage���3

Ⅲ

Projects of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage ��7

Ⅳ

Activities of Each Institution

Ⅴ

Reference Materials ������������������� 25

Ⅵ

Information about Donations and Membership������ 27１

 reservation and Transmission of Tangible Cultural Properties, andP
Utilization of Cultural Properties to Disseminate Japan’s History
and Traditional Culture Nationally and Internationally��������� 7（１）Collection and Preservation of Tangible Cultural Properties, andTransmission of Tangible Cultural Properties to Future
  Generations▪Acquisition▪Conservation and Restoration（２）Exhibitions▪Exhibitions▪Number of Visitors（３）Education（４）Research on the Collection, Preservation, and Exhibition of
Tangible Cultural Properties (Namely fine and applied arts),
and Educational Activities（５）Contribution to Museum-related Activities in Japan and Abroad（６）The Promotion of Cultural Properties
２ Implementing Research and Collaborative Projects for the Protectionof Cultural Properties and Overseas Cultural Heritage �������� 9（１）Research Leading to New ldeas（２）Basic Research for the Improvement of Research andDevelopment Utilizing Science and Technology（３）International Collaboration Relating to the Preservation ofCultural Heritage（４）Collecting and Collating Information Relating to Cultural
Properties, and Publicizing and Utilizing the Results of Surveys
and Research（５）Provision of Training for, and Collaboration with, Local
Government Authorities in Relation to Cultural Properties（６）National Task Force for the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Mitigation Network (CH-DRM Net), Japan

Kyushu National Museum:
Vase, pine, bamboo and plumtrees in overglaze enamels,
Important Cultural Property, Edo
period, 17th–18th century
Tokyo National Research Institute forCultural Properties:
Implementation of imaging
diagnostics to determine the stateof deterioration of dinosaur footprint
fossils
Nara National Research Institutefor Cultural Properties:
On-site presentation at the East
Palace Site, Heijo Palace
International Research Centre for
Intangible Cultural Heritage in the
Asia-Pacific Region (IRCI):
Field Survey in Vanuatu for“Preliminary Research on ICH
Safeguarding and Disaster Risk
Management”

Directors
Organizational Chart
Number of Staff

Tokyo National Museum���������������������� 11
Kyoto National Museum���������������������� 13
Nara National Museum ���������������������� 15
Kyushu National Museum��������������������� 17
Tokyo National Research Institute forCultural Properties ������������������������ 19
Nara National Research Institute forCultural Properties ������������������������ 21
International Research Centre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region（IRCI） �������� 23

External Evaluation Board
Number of Staff
BudgetIncome from External Sources

Financial Donations and Cultural Property Donations
Membership
Venue Rental
Diversifying Visitor Experiences

Message
MATSUMURA Keiji
President
Independent Administrative Institution
National Institutes for Cultural Heritage(Director General, Nara National Research Institute forCultural Properties)
The National Institutes for Cultural Heritage (NICH) comprise four National Museums (Tokyo
National Museum, Kyoto National Museum, Nara National Museum, and Kyushu National
Museum) and two National Research Institutes for Cultural Properties (Tokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural Properties, and Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties),
as well as the International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-PacificRegion (IRCI) in Sakai City, for a total of seven institutions. While each of these institutions
has its own unique history and objectives, they work together as one to safeguard cultural
heritage and foster its utilization, and play a key role in supporting the infrastructure for theadministration of cultural heritage preservation in Japan.
The NICH’s Fourth Medium-term Plan, which was launched in 2016, is now entering thethird year of its five-year implementation period. In FY2018, it is our intention that the NICH will
be working to create more opportunities for large numbers of people - including both Japanesecitizens and overseas visitors - to learn about Japan’s history and culture in depth throughcoming into contact with Japan’s precious cultural heritage, in line with the Basic Plan on the
Promotion of Culture and the Arts, which was approved by the Cabinet in March 2018. The
collection, preservation, study, management, and display of cultural heritage has always been
the NICH’s core mission, and we will continue to further strengthen these functions, while alsobuilding on our existing display techniques by promoting the adoption of new display methods
that make effective use of advanced, cutting-edge technologies, exploring the potential ofhighly-detailed replicas, and expanding the scope of cultural heritage digital archives, etc.
ICOM KYOTO 2019 (the 25th General Conference of the International Council of Museums),
which the NICH will be hosting, and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, which will be amajor focus of global attention, are fast approaching. The NICH will be working to ensure thatICOM KYOTO 2019 is a resounding success, while also making full use of this opportunity to
spread awareness – both within Japan and overseas – of the richness of Japan’s history and its
multifaceted traditional culture, as well as to further invigorate the NICH’s activities and fostera more mature understanding of the importance of cultural heritage preservation. To this end,
we will be aiming to provide high-quality services, through the continued implementation of amultilingual environment, and through an approach to the management of the NICH museums
that strives to make them fascinating and enjoyable places to visit.
Some of the most urgent tasks for the NICH include the examination of technical issues
relating to cultural heritage disaster risk mitigation and disaster preparedness in the eventof a large-scale natural disaster, the establishment of a nationwide system for rescuing
cultural heritage from natural disasters, and the promotion of surveys and research relating tostabilization measures of rescued cultural heritage and restoration methods. To this end, we
will be working to realize even closer coordination and collaboration with the relevant agencies,
including the Agency for Cultural Affairs, and will continue to enhance the National Task Force of
the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Mitigation Network.
Cultural properties are historical and cultural heritage that embody the foundations of
our country. Besides working to ensure that these priceless cultural properties are properly
preserved and utilized, so that they can be passed down to future generations, the NICH will
also be working actively to spread awareness, both within Japan and overseas, of the historical,
artistic, and cultural value that Japan’s cultural heritage possesses, thereby helping to promoteand strengthen understanding of Japanese culture.
We look forward to receiving your continued support and assistance in the future.

1

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

Ⅰ Organization
Directors（As of April 1, 2018）
HAYASHIDA Suma: Director
KURUSHIMA Noriko: Auditor
NAKAMOTO Fuminori: Auditor

MATSUMURA Keiji: President (and Executive Director of the Nara
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties)
SUGINO Tsuyoshi: Director
SHIMATANI Hiroyuki: Director (and Executive Director, Kyusyu National Museum)

Organizational Chart
National Institutes for Cultural
Heritage Secretariat

President

Research Coordinator

Auditor
Audit Oﬃce

Director
Secretary - General

Directors

General Aﬀairs

Vice Director

Financial Aﬀairs
Accounting
Facilities and Operations Division
Secretariat of the National Task
Force for the Cultural Heritage
Disaster Risk Mitigation Network
National Center for the Promotionof Cultural Properties (Established
July 1, 2018)

Kyoto National
MuseumTokyo National
MuseumExecutive
Director

Director
GeneralExecutive
Vice Director

Deputy Director
GeneralAdministration
Department
GeneralAffairs Division
Accounting
Division
Facilities andOperations
Division
Curatorial
Planning
Department
Planning
Division
Education
Division
Informatics
Division
Public Relations
and Press
Editors Office forthe 150―Year
History of Tokyo
National Museum
Curatorial Research
Department
Collections
Management
Division
Research
Division
Conservation
Division
SpecialResearch Chair

Administrative
Division
Curatorial
Board
Chief
CuratorNara National
MuseumExecutive
Director

Kyushu National
MuseumExecutive
Director

Executive
Vice Director

Executive
Vice Director
GeneralAﬀairs Division

GeneralAﬀairs Division

Curatorial
Board

Curatorial
Division

Tokyo National
Research Institute forCultural Properties

Nara National ResearchInstitute forCultural Properties

International ResearchCentre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in
the Asia-Pacific Region

Director
General

Director
General

Director
GeneralDeputy Director
GeneralDepartment ofResearch,
Support andPromotion

Management
SectionAdministration
Division

Department of
Art ResearchArchives andInformation
Systems

Collaboration
Promotion
Division

Planning Division

SpecialResearch Chair

MuseumScience
Division
Cultural
Properties
Division

Asian Cultural
Exchange Center※※ Kyushu National
Museum is
managed incooperation with
Fukuoka Prefecture

Deputy Director
GeneralDepartment ofResearch
Support andPromotion

Deputy Director
GeneralResearch
SupportDivision

Department ofIntangible
Cultural
Heritage

Department ofPlanning and
Coordination

Center forConservation
Science

Department ofCultural Heritage

Japan Center forInternational
Cooperation inConservation

Department ofImperial Palace
Site Investigations
Center for
Archaeological
Operations
Asuka
HistoricalMuseumNumber of Staff
Division
Total
National Institutes for Cultural Heritage Secretariat

Total staff

Administrative
staff

349

133

20

   4

192

24

23

   0

   0

   1
55

Technical andsecurity staff

Specialists

Curators/
Researchers

Tokyo National Museum

106

35

13

   3

Kyoto National Museum

39

19

   4

   0

16

Nara National Museum

31

15

   3

   0

13

Kyushu National Museum

25

   8

   0

   0

17

Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

42

   8

   0

   0

34

Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

79

23

   0

   1

55

   3

   2

   0

   0

   1

International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage
in the Asia-Pacific Region（As of April 1, 2018）

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 20182

Ⅱ Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
The Independent Administrative Institution (IAI), National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, was formed in April 2007 through themerging of the IAI National Museums (Tokyo National Museum, Kyoto National Museum, Nara National Museum, and Kyushu
National Museum) and the IAI National Research Institutes for Cultural Properties (Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties and Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties), all of which share the same mission: the conservation
and utilization of cultural properties. With the addition of the International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the
Asia-Pacific Region, which was established in October 2011, the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage now comprise a totalof seven separate institutions.
Japan’s cultural properties are the precious assets of the Japanese people. In order to preserve and utilize these properties
more effectively and efficiently under unified management, each of the seven existing institutions plays the following roles;

Tokyo National Museum

Kyoto National Museum

Nara National Museum

As Japan’s foremost museum in thehumanities field, Tokyo National Museum collects, preserves, manages,
and displays cultural properties fromacross Japan and other Asian regions,while also conducting research and providing educational programs.

Kyoto National Museum collects,preserves, manages, and displays
cultural properties, while also
conducting research and providing
educational programs. The focus ison works from the Heian period to
the Edo period. a time when Kyoto
was the capital of Japan.

Nara National Museum collects, preserves, manages, and displays culturalproperties, while also conducting research and providing education programs. The focus is Buddhist art andthe cultural properties of Nara.

Kyushu National Museum

Tokyo National Research Institutefor Cultural Properties

Nara National Institute forCultural Properties

Tokyo National Research Institute forCultural Properties conducts research
on Japanese cultural properties, utilizing
a variety of methods. In addition to publicizing and utilizing the results of thisresearch, as an international center forcooperation, the institute also facilitates
global research into the protection ofcultural properties.

Located near the Nara Palace site,
Nara National Research Institute forCultural Properties conducts excavation
and research projects related to theconservation and utilization of cultural
heritage such as sites. buildings, andgardens, as well as cultural properties,
preserved at major temples and shrines in
the Nara and Kinki regions. The Institutealso provides advice and cooperation forresearch projects conducted across Japan.

Kyushu National Museum collects,preserves, manages, and displays cultural properties, while also conducting
research and providing educational programs. The focus is on cultural assets
related to Japan’s cultural exchanges
with other Asian regions.

International Research Centre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region
This institution promotes researchthat contributes to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage (ICH) in the AsiaPacific region, and also collects anddisseminates information relating tointernational trends in the safeguarding of ICH.

Tokyo National Museum
13-9 Ueno Park,
Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-8712

Access▲ To JRUguisudani
StationInternational
Library ofChildren’s
Literature
KurodaMemorial Hall◀To Tokyo
Metro Nezu
StationWest
GateTOKYO NATIONAL
MUSEUM
Main Gate

Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum

Phone: +81-3-3822-1111

Visitor Information

Hours: 9:30–17:00※Open until 21:00 on Fridays, Saturdays, October 31, and November 1※Open until 18:00 on weekends and holidays from April to September※Open until 22:00 on September 21–22※Last entry is 30 minutes before closing
Closed: M ondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on Monday and closed on Tuesday). However, the Museum will be open on April 2(Mon), May 1 (Tue), August 13 (Mon), December 25 (Tue), and March 25,
2019 (Mon).
During the year-end and New Year holiday (December 26–January 1)
June 12※Please note that opening days and hours are subject to change due tospecial exhibitions and events

3

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

Fountain
Police Box

Ueno park
Ueno Zoo

National Museumof Western Art
Tokyo Metropolitan
Festival HallPark Exit
To Keisei Ueno Station ▼JR UenoStationhttp://www.tnm.jp/

National Museumof Nature andScienceTokyo Metro
Ueno Station●Train1
 0 minute walk from the Park Exit of JR Ueno Station or fromthe South Exit of JR Uguisudani Station. 15 minute walk from
Ueno Station or Nezu Station (Tokyo Metro), or from Keisei
Ueno Station (Keisei Electric Railway Keisei Line).

Admission: Adults: 620 (520) yen
University students: 410 (310) yen※( ) indicates prices for paying visitors in groups of 20 or more
※An additional charge is required for special exhibitions※Any person with disabilities and one accompanying caregiver are
admitted free※Persons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free to regular exhibitions※Admission to regular exhibitions is free on International Museum
Day (May 18 or the following day if May 18 falls on a Monday),on Respect for the Aged Day (the third Monday of September),and December 23–25

605-0931 Japan
Phone: +81-75-541-1151(Main switchboard)
http://www.kyohaku.go.jp/

Kintetsu
Kyoto Line

JR Kyoto
StationHigasStre hiojietKennin-ji
TempleHokokuShrineKyoto National
MuseumChishaku-in
TempleSanjusangendo
TempleJR Tokaido Line
Shinkansen Line

JR Nara Line

Transportation: ●Bus

Visitor InformationA t Kyoto Station, take City Bus #100 from bus platform D1

Hours: Collection Galleries: 9:30–17:00

or City Bus #206 or #208 from bus platform D2. Get off at

Special Exhibitions: 9:30–18:00

the Hakubutsukan Sanjusangendo-mae bus stop in front of※Open until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays（Collection Galleries are open

the Museum.

until 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays in July, August, and September)●Train※The Gardens are open 9:30–17:00

K intetsu Railway: Get off at Tanbabashi Station and transfer※Last entry is 30 minutes before closing

to the Keihan Railway. From Keihan Tanbabashi Station take

Closed: M ondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on Monday

a Demachi-yanagi-bound train to Shichijo Station. Walk east-and closed on Tuesday)

ward along Shichijo (Nanajo) Street for about 7 minutes toDuring the year-end and New Year holiday (December 25–January 1)

the Museum.

The Collection Galleries may be closed while special exhibitions are beingK eihan Railway: Get off at Shichijo Station. Walk eastward

prepared or dismantled

along Shichijo (Nanajo) Street for about 7 minutes to the

Admission: Adults: 520 (410) yen

Museum.

University students: 260 (210) yen

H ankyu Railway: Get off at Kawaramachi Station. Walk east-※( ) indicates prices for paying visitors in groups of 20 or moreward over the bridge to the Keihan Railway Gion Shijo Sta-

※A separate admission charge applies during periods when only Featuretion. Take an Osaka-bound Keihan train to Shichijo Station.

Exhibitions and the Museum Gardens are open to visitors.

Walk eastward along Shichijo (Nanajo) Street for about 7※Any person with disabilities and one accompanying caregiver are

minutes to the Museum.

admitted freeP arking: The museum has limited parking at an hourly rate.

※Persons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free to the Collection

Please use public transportation whenever possible.

Galleries

AccessNara National Museum

Todaiji
TempleN
W
S

50 Noborioji-cho, Nara City

Noborioji Street

Kohfukuji
Temple 卍

JR
Sta Naration

Nara Prefecture 630-8213
Phone: +81-742-22-7771(Main switchboard)

Sanjo Street

http://www.narahaku.go.jp/

卍●TrainKintetsu Line: 15 minutes from Kintetsu Nara Station.
●BusTake the Shinai Junkan from JR or Kintetsu Nara Station to
the Himuro Jinja/Kokuritsu Hakubutsukan bus stop.

Hours: 9:30–17:00

Admission: Adults: 520 (410) yen

day period) Permanent Collection exhibitions and feature exhibitions

University students: 260 (210) yen

are open until 20:00※(※Opening hours are occasionally extended during special seasonal
events in the Nara area
※Opening hours for special exhibitions and joint exhibitions vary by exhibition※Last entry is 30 minutes before closing
Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on
Monday and closed on Tuesday) and January 1※The Museum may also be closed on other days due to special cir-KasugaTaisha Shrine

Nara National Museum

Gangoji
TempleVisitor Information※On Fridays and Saturdays (excluding the year-end and New Year holi-

Himuro Jinja 卍
NaraShrinePrefectural
Office underpass

E
Kintetsu
Nara Station

cumstances

Kaw
Stre abata
et
Yam
atoo
Stre
ji
et

Kaw
Stre aramachietShichijo
StreetKeih
Railwanay

Higashi Hongan-ji
TempleRiver

527 Chaya-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto

Kamo

Gojo Street

ijoShichonStati

Subway Karasuma Line

Horikawa
StreetKyoto National Museum

Karasuma
StreetAccess) indicates group prices for paying visitors in groups of 20

or more※An additional charge is required for special exhibitions※Any person with disabilities and one accompanying caregiverare admitted free※Persons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free to the Permanent Collection exhibitions※Free admission to the Permanent Collection exhibitions onChildren’s Day (May 5), International Museum Day (May 18, orthe following day if May 18 falls on a Monday), Respect for
the Aged Day (the third Monday of September), Kansai Culture Day, Owatari-shiki Parade Day of the On-matsuri Festival,
and Setsubun (February 3).

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 20184

Kyushu National Museum

Access35

Dazaifu Tenmangu
Shrine4-7-2, Ishizaka, Dazaifu City, Fukuoka
Prefecture, 818-0118
Phone: +81-92-918-2807

Nishitetsu
Dazaifu
StationNis
Da hitetzaif suuL
ine(Main switchboard)
http://www.kyuhaku.com/¯¯
Komyozenji
Temple76
Chikushino-Dazaifu Line

●TrainVisitor Information

Nishitetsu Rail Line: From Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin)
Station, take the Nishitetsu Tenjin Omuta Line to Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station (about 16 minutes on the

Hours: 9:30–17:00※Open until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays

Limited Express, 19 minutes on an Express train), andtransfer to the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line (about 5 minutes), and get off at Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station. About a※Last entry is 30 minutes before closing
Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on Monday andclosed on Tuesday) and during the year-end holiday (December 24–31)

10 minute walk from Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station.
*No extra charge is required for taking the Limited Express or an Express train.

Admission: Adults: 430 (220) yen
University students: 130 (70) yen※(

KyushuNational
Museum) indicates prices for paying visitors in groups of 20 or more

JR Line: From JR Hakata Station, take the JR Kagoshi-※An additional charge is required for special exhibitions

ma Chuo Line (about 15 minutes on the Rapid train) andget off at JR Futsukaichi Station. Transfer to Nishitetsu※Persons over 70 or under 18 are admitted free to the Cultural Exchange Exhibition(permanent exhibition)

Futsukaichi Station on foot (12 minutes) or by bus (5minutes). Take the Nishitetsu Dazaifu Line and get off at※Free admission to the Cultural Exchange Exhibition on Children’s Day (May 5),
International Museum Day (May 18, or the following day if May 18 falls on a

Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station. The Museum is a 10 minute
walk from the Station.

Monday), and Respect for the Aged Day (the third Monday of September)●CarOn the Kyushu Expressway, about a 20 minute drivefrom either Dazaifu I.C. or Chikushino I.C. via Takao Intersection. On the Fukuoka Urban Expressway, about a 20
minute drive from Mizuki exit via Takao Intersection.
●TaxiAbout 15 minutes from JR Futsukaichi Station, or 30
minutes from Fukuoka Airport.
●Nishitetsu Bus
From the Hakata Bus Terminal (bus stop no. 11), takethe bus to Dazaifu and get off at Nishitetsu Dazaifu Station (the bus ride is about 40 minutes). The Museum is
a 10 minute walk from the Station.

Tokyo National Research Institute forCultural Properties
卍 Kaneiji

JR Uguisudani
StationtempleUeno juniorHigh School
International Library ofchildren’s Literature

Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum

Ueno park

National Museumof Nature andScienceNational Museumof Western Art

Ueno Zoo

Tokyo Metropolitan
Festival Hall

To Tokyo Station

TOKYO NATIONAL
MUSEUM

Kuroda Memorial HallThe University
Art Museum-Tokyo
University of the Arts

Shinobugaoka
Junior High School

Tokyo National
Research Institute forCultural Properties

JR UenoStationhttp://www.tobunken.go.jp/←To Ikebukuro
Station↑Phone: +81-3-3823-2241

AccessPark Exit

13-43 Ueno Park,Taito-ku,Tokyo, 110-8713●Train
JR Line: 10 minute walk from the South Exit of
Uguisudani Station, or 15 minute walk from thePark Exit of Ueno Station.
Ginza or Hibiya Tokyo Metro Line: 20 minute walkfrom Ueno Station.
Chiyoda Tokyo Metro Line: 20 minute walk from
Nezu Station.
K eisei Line: 20 minute walk from Keisei Ueno
Station.

5

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

Nara National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties
AccessNara Area

Asuka and Fujiwara Areao→Kashihara
jingo shrine←To Osaka
Abenobashi

Kashihara
Kintetsu Minami jingu-mae Sta.
Osaka LineThe Institute and the Nara Palace Site Museum●TrainKintetsu Line: 10 minutes from the North Exit of
Yamato Saidaiji Station.
●BusFrom JR and Kintetsu Nara Stations, take the Nara
Kotsu Bus and get off at the Nijocho bus stop.

Visitor Information(Asuka/Fujiwara)

Route 169

Omiya St.

To Kintetsu Nara→

Kintetsu
kashihara Line
Unebi goryomae
Sta.

Shin Omiya
Sta.

JR-WestＮara Sta.

e←To Osaka

Route24

Kintetsu Kashihara Line←To Kashiharajingu-mae

Nara Lin

Ichijo St

Mt AmanokaguyamaaKintetsu

To Sakurai→
To Sakurai→

Fujiwara Department of Imperial
Palace Site Palace Sites Investigations

Route 24

w
ga r
ka ve
su Ri

Temporary building (in use until theend of September 2018):
247-1 Saki-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8577
New administration building (in use
starting from October 2018):
2-9-1 Nijo-cho, Nara City, Nara Prefecture 630-8577
Phone: +81-742-30-6733
https://www.nabunken.go.jp/

SuzakuGate

Miminashi
Sta.
JR Sakurai LineA

Exterior view of the new administration building

Nara palace
East Palace
Site
GardenRoute 165
JR Unebi
Sta.

←To Takada

t
es ne
-W Li
JR sainKa

Nara National
Research Institutefor Cultural
Properties

zu
Ki

Y
←T Said amatooa
Na Osak iji Sta
mb a
.
a

Kintetsu Osaka Line

Yamato←To Osaka Yagi Sta.
Uehonmachi

To

Nara Palace
Site Museum

Former Imperial
Audience Hall
Excavation Site
Exhibition Hall←

To Kyot

Asuka HistoricalMuseumOkuyama kumedera
temple↓To Yoshino

Asuka Niimasu
Jinjya shrine

Yamadadera
templeDepartment of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations(Asuka/Fujiwara)●Taxi
20 minutes from Kintetsu Yamato Yagi Station.
The Asuka Historical Museum●Taxi
20 minutes from Kintetsu Kashihara Jingu Mae
Station.
●Bus
From either Kintetsu Kashihara Jingu Mae Station
or Kintetsu Asuka Station, take the Kame Bus andget off at the Asuka Okuyama Asuka HistoricalMuseum West bus stop.
From JR/Kintetsu Sakurai Station, take the Nara
Kotsu Bus and get off at the Asuka HistoricalMuseum bus stop.

●Asuka Historical Museum●Nara Palace Site Museum
Hours: 9:00–16:30 (free admission; last entry at 16:00)
Closed: Mondays (if Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be open on
Monday and closed on Tuesday) and during the year-end and New Yearholiday (December 29–January 3)
Note: Free guided tours by volunteers are available
Phone: +81-742-30-6753 (Collaboration Promotion Division)●Exhibition Room of the Fujiwara Palace Site
Hours: 9:00–16:30 (free admission)
Closed: During the year-end and New Year holiday (December 29–January 3) andduring exhibition renewal periods
Phone: +81-744-24-1122 (Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations for
Asuka and Fujiwara)

Hours: 9:00–16:30 (last entry at 16:00)
Closed: Mondays (If Monday is a national holiday, the Museum will be
open on Monday and closed on Tuesday) and during theyear-end and New Year holiday (December 26–January 3)
Admission: Adults: 270 (170) yen
University students: 130 (60) yen※( ) indicates prices for paying visitors in groups of 20
or more (If some members of the group are entitled tofree admission, the reduced group charge will still apply
to the other members of the group)※A n additional charge may be required for special
exhibitions※A ny person with disabilities and one accompanying
caregiver are admitted free※Persons over 65 or under 18 are admitted free
Note: Guides are available (free of charge; reservations required)
Phone: +81-744-54-3561 (Asuka Historical Museum)International Research Centre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region (IRCI)
AccessShin-osaka

Highway
Sakai Exit

To Namba

https://www.irci.jp

N
Koy ankaia Line

JR Hanwa Line

NintokuTenno-ryo
Kofun
Bus Stop
Hakubutukan-mae

IRCI
Goryodori
Daisennishimachi2cho

Mikun

igaokaMozu

Hankai Line
GoryomaeTennojii

Phone:+81-72-275-8050

shiga

Sakai City, Osaka 590-0802

kaih

Sa

Sakai City Museum, 2 cho Mozusekiun-cho, Sakai-ku,

City OfficeOsaka

To Kansai
Airport●TrainJR Hanwa Line: 6 minutes from Mozu Station.
●BusN ankai Bus: 4 minutes from the Sakaishi Hakubutsukanmae bus stop.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

6

Ⅱ

Projects of the National Institutes for Cultural
Heritage
The Undertakings of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage include:
Preservation and Transmission of Tangible Cultural Properties, andUtilization of Cultural Properties to Disseminate Japan’s History andTraditional Culture Nationally and Internationally１（1）Collection and Preservation of Tangible Cultural Properties, and Transmission of
Tangible Cultural Properties to Future Generations
As core institutions involved in the preservation and transmission of history and traditional culture, each museum collects objects
according to its own individual collection policy to ensure that its collection is systematically and historically balanced.
We also work closely with the Agency for Cultural Affairs to encourage donations and long-term loans from private owners,
utilizing the System of Enrolled Art Objects, for example, or improving the inheritance tax system to make donations of objects easier.
Japan’s cultural properties are the precious assets of the Japanese people. In order to pass on this heritage to future
generations, we implement thorough management of items in the collections, and make efforts to improve the environments for these
items while working systematically to conserve them, with those requiring urgent treatment given priority. This work is carried out
through the coordinated efforts of NICH's conservators and professionals of conservation science as well as specialists (both internaland external) in the fields of conservation science and restoration technology, using both traditional techniques and modern scientificmethods. Conservation studios and other facilities also recognize the need to protect cultural properties from natural disasters, andare working with the government to make further preparations.

■Acquisition

We continually strive to acquire cultural properties through purchases and donations with the aim of:（1）building collections
that are both systematically and historically balanced, and（2）preventing the dispersion of private collections and the export oftangible cultural properties from Japan. Furthermore, the four museums each accept long-term loans from temples, shrines, andprivate collectors in order to further enhance their distinctive regular exhibitions.

Number of Items in the Museum Collections
Total
Total
128,208（Entries）

Tokyo National Museum Kyoto National Museum Nara National Museum Kyushu National Ｍuseum

Important
Important
Important
Important
ImportantNational
National
National
National
National
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
CulturalTreasures
Treasures
Treasures
Treasures
Treasures
Properties
Properties
Properties
Properties
Properties134

997 117,460

89

643

7,977

29

202

1,893

13

113

878

3

39

Nara National Research Institute holds 1 National Treasure and 4 Important Cultural Properties. （Figures as of March 31, 2018）

Number of Items on Long-term Loan to the Museums
Total
Total
12,240（Entries）

Tokyo National Museum Kyoto National Museum Nara National Museum Kyushu National Museum

Important
Important
Important
Important
ImportantNational
National
National
National
National
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
Cultural Total
CulturalTreasures
Treasures
Treasures
Treasures
Treasures
Properties
Properties
Properties
Properties
Properties
196

1,196 3,109

55

260

6,235

86

620

1,962

53

304

934

2

12

（Figures as of March 31, 2018）■Conservation and Restoration

Tangible cultural properties preserved in museum collections need to be conserved approximately once every 100 years. The
Institutes carry out two levels of conservation work: minimal treatments that allow for the safe display and storage of theobjects: and full-scale treatments, carried out systematically in accordance with the conditions of the objects.

（２）Exhibitions
We disseminate information both nationally and internationally to promote understanding of the history and traditional culture ofJapan and other Asian regions. For this purpose, we hold attractive exhibitions and high-quality displays that reflect both visitor
needs and the latest academic trends, while also taking into consideration the needs of international cultural exchange.
In addition, we are constantly striving to make our museums more visitor-friendly by extending opening hours and creating
multilingual and accessible environments, with extensive information for visitors to enhance the overall museum experience. We
are also making improvements to museum management in response to visitor feedback.

7

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

■Exhibitions

Each museum holds its own distinctive regular and special exhibitions to provide opportunities for visitors to engage withtraditional art and archaeological objects, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. We also collaborate
with museums overseas to hold exhibitions that introduce a variety of cultures.

■Number of Visitors（FY 2017）
Total

Tokyo National Museum

Kyoto National Museum

Nara National Museum

Kyushu National Museum

4,728,996

2,569,585

941,931549,211668,269

Kyoto National Museum: 120th Anniversary
Commemorative Special Exhibition of National
Treasures: Masterpieces of Japan (October
3-November 26, 2017)

Special Exhibition on the Occasion of the 130th
Anniversary of Thailand–Japan Diplomatic Relations:Japanese Art: Belief and Life (at the National Museum
Bangkok; December 27, 2017– February 18, 2018)（３）Education
To promote understanding of the history and traditional culture of Japan and other Asian regions, we provide a variety of educational programs, such as lectures and workshops, in cooperation with schools and other educational institutions.
Furthermore, we work with universities to provide professional training and support volunteer activities with the aim of further
improving our educational programs. We also implement training programs for museum professionals, conservators, and others.
We also utilize the internet to disseminate information about cultural properties, and publicize our exhibitions and educational
activities through the collection, publication, and display of various types of information.

The Second Volunteer Festival (Nara National
Museum)Feature Exhibition: Aquarium at the Kyoto National
Museum: What Kind of Fish Can You Find? –Gallery Talk (Kyoto National Museum)（４）Research on the Collection, Preservation, and Exhibition of Tangible Cultural
Properties (Namely fine and applied arts), and Educational Activities
We conduct surveys and research relating to the collection, preservation, and exhibition of tangible cultural properties, as well as educational activities, on a systematic basis; organize international symposiums
to which leading researchers are invited; arrange for NICH staff to workat overseas research institutes and attend international conferences;and conduct research while accumulating the latest information.
The results obtained from our surveys and research are publicizedusing a variety of methods, including publications and the internet,
thereby contributing to the transmission of cultural properties to thenext generation and to the promotion of Japanese culture.

Research on the preservation and utilizationof underwater archaeological sites (Kyushu
National Museum)

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

8

（５）C
 ontribution to Museum-related Activities in Japan and Abroad
We loan items from our collections to museums in Japan and abroad, while giving
consideration to the states of preservation of the items in question, so that they
may be viewed more widely by both domestic and international audiences. We arealso actively engaged in providing guidance and advice to other museums and in
the exchange of information, as well as working to develop a disaster risk mitigation network for cultural properties.

International Symposium: “Reinventing Japanese
Art Through Museum Experiences” (January
12–13, 2018; Tokyo National Museum)（６）The Promotion of Cultural Properties
In July 2018, the National Center for the Promotion of Cultural Properties was formally established at the headquarters of the Independent Administrative Institution National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, to serve as the national center for the display andutilization of Japan’s cultural heritage.
The Center will be focused on both the preservation and the effective utilization of cultural heritage. Besides working together with private-sector business enterprises and other groups to develop new ways of utilizing cultural heritage, the Center will
also work to strengthen support for museums, art galleries, etc. in every region of Japan and in other countries, thereby creating
new opportunities for people both in Japan and overseas to experience Japan’s priceless cultural heritage.

Research and Collaborative Projects for the Protection of
２ Implementing
Cultural Properties and Overseas Cultural Heritage
We undertake the following types of surveys and research to contribute to the formation of the framework of knowledge andtechniques required to facilitate the transmission of priceless cultural properties to future generations.

（１）Research Leading to New Ideas
We are engaged in undertaking fundamental and systematic research relating to cultural properties (including collaborative
research and research-related exchange with other organizations, both in Japan and overseas) and also surveys and researchthat contribute to the preservation and effective utilization of cultural properties. The results achieved through these surveys andresearch have led to an increase in the amount of basic data available, facilitated the accumulation of academic knowledge, andprovided the basic information needed to support the designation as cultural properties, while also contributing, at individual andcollective levels, to the planning and establishment of cultural property preservation measures by national and local government
bodies, as well as the evaluation of cultural properties.

Cleaning oil stains – Research and practicalimplementation (Tokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural Properties)

Field survey in the gardens of Hokkeji Temple, adesignated site of Scenic Beauty (Nara National
Research Institute for Cultural Properties)（２）B asic Research for the Improvement of Research and Development Utilizing
Science and Technology
We undertake the following types of research and development to support the development of research on the value and preservation of cultural properties:① We contribute to the enhancement of the accuracy and effectiveness of culturalproperty survey methods through the promotion of R&D work such as the application of science and technology. We also contribute towards the clarification of the
background (cultural, historical, and natural environment) against which culturalproperties came into being, and the process of change in this background over time.
②As a core research center for research relating to cultural property preservation science and restoration techniques, restoration materials, and production techniques,
we work for the development of new techniques for cultural property research,making use of the latest scientific and technological developments, and promote

Investigation of the plaster layer of the
Takamatsuzuka mural paintings using
terahertz imaging techniquecutting-edge surveys and research with the aim of fostering joint research and research-related exchange with other institutions both in Japan and overseas.

9

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

（３）International Collaboration Relating to the Preservation of Cultural Heritage
We promote the acquisition and analysis of information from abroad regarding cultural
heritage, and also promote cooperative programs for the protection of this heritage. Additionally, we create human resources development and technology transfer programsfor the conservation and restoration of cultural properties. These programs involve training and the dispatch of specialists. All of the aforementioned endeavors—which are
pursued while utilizing the knowledge, technology, and experience that Japan has for theprotection of cultural heritage—are contributions of international importance. Moreover,through cooperation with researchers and other specialists in the Asia-Pacific region,
we conduct research for the protection of intangible cultural heritage endangered bynatural disasters and other threats, and promote protection of this heritage on an international scale. Through such activities for the protection of humanity’s shared assets,
we contribute to cultural exchange between countries and to mutual understanding.

International Symposium: “Glocal
Perspectives on Intangible Cultural
Heritage: Local Communities, Researchers,
States and UNESCO” (International
Research Center for Intangible Cultural
Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region)（４）Collecting and Collating Information Relating to Cultural Properties, andPublicizing and Utilizing the Results of Surveys and Research
We are working to promote the digitalization of information relating to cultural properties and expand related specialist archives, as well as organizing public lectures andinternational symposiums, and expanding the content included on the websites of theindividual facilities that make up the NICH, with the aim of furthering the collection, collation and preservation of information relating to cultural properties, and of ensuring thatsuch outcomes are widely publicized and disseminated. We are also working to expand
the displays of survey and research results held at the Nara Palace Site Museum, Exhibition Room of Fujiwara Imperial Site, and Asuka Historical Museum of the Nara National
Research Institute for Cultural Properties, so as to provide the general public with a morein-depth understanding of related areas.

51st Open Lecture: “The Path from Formand to Form” (Tokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural Properties)（５）P rovision of Training for, and Collaboration with, Local Government Authorities
in Relation to Cultural Properties
While contributing to the enhancement of knowledge and techniques through the implementation of training tailored to the needs of local government authorities by making effective use of the results obtained in past surveys and research, we also undertake cultivation of core human resources that will play key roles in the preservation of Japan’scultural properties in the future, through collaborative education projects in conjunction
with university graduate schools. After the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011, weplayed a central role in activities conducted to rescue cultural properties at the requestof the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Making effective use of this experience, we are also
undertaking research projects and capacity building aimed at putting in place a nationwide system for coordination and collaboration so as to develop a network for safeguarding and rescuing cultural properties in the event of future large-scale disasters such as
major earthquakes.

Specialist training for cultural properties
pr eser v ation st a f f: “Conser v ation
Science IV (Archeological Remains andStone-built Cultural Properties) Course”
in progress (Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural Properties)（６）National Task Force for the Cultural Heritage Disaster Risk Mitigation
Network (CH-DRM Net), Japan
In order to safeguard cultural heritage from the various types of natural disasters thathave been occuring so frequently in recent years, we enhance collaboration with participating organizations in the CH-DRM Net and local government authorities. We havebeen undertaking research on emergency treatments for disaster-affected culturalproperties, and organizing awareness-raising activities to improve the general public’s
understanding of cultural heritage disaster risk mitigation. When a disaster occurs, we
obtain the necessary information as quickly as possible through coordination with local
government authorities and 24 participating organizations in Japan; working closely with
the Agency for Cultural Affairs, we dispatch experts and provide information with the aimof minimizing the damage to cultural heritage. We provide advice based on our research
into emergency treatments, and review these treatment methods as necessary, work-

Training in the implementation ofem er g enc y t r e a t m en t s f or w a t er damaged paper materials (NaraNational Research Institute for Cultural
Properties)

ing to further strengthen cultural heritage disaster risk mitigation through the holding of
symposiums and by organizing training activities and other programs for cultural heritage officials at local government authorities.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201810

Ⅳ Activities of Each Institution
Tokyo National Museum
As Japan’s foremost museum in the humanities field, Tokyo National Museum collects, preserves, manages, and displays cultural properties from across Japan and other Asian regions, while also conducting research and providing educational programs.

ZENIYA Masami
Executive Director
Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum was established in 1872, making it the oldest museum in Japan. Its
collection comprises more than 117,000 cultural properties, including many National Treasures andImportant Cultural Properties. We collect, preserve, conserve, and display tangible cultural properties fromacross Japan and other Asian regions. We also conduct research on these objects and promote
understanding of art through educational programs.
The Museum seeks to further enhance its culturally-oriented exhibitions by displaying some of thefinest objects and holding events tailored to the seasons. From fiscal year 2017, the Museum’s opening
hours were extended until 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year, with the aim of providing
both foreign tourists and domestic visitors with more opportunities to view the Museum’s exhibits; theMuseum will also be holding a variety of special events on Friday and Saturday evenings to further
enhance the experience of evening visitors.
In addition to exhibitions, the Museum also offers a wide range of programs, including hands-on
activities, guided tours, and workshops. Our hands-on art-making workshops for students help them todeepen their understanding of cultural treasures.
We will continue striving to make the Tokyo National Museum more enjoyable for everyone, includingchildren and adults, as well as visitors from other countries.

■Exhibitions●Regular Exhibitions

The regular exhibitions comprise the core function of the museum’s exhibition activities, displaying works from the museum collection as well
as objects on loan to the museum. Exhibits are rotated periodically, with an approximate total of 370 rotations annually. In the fiscal year of
2018, 7,200 objects are scheduled for display. The regular exhibition galleries are as follows:
HONKAN (Japanese Gallery): The 2nd floor provides an overview of the history of Japanese art in chronological order from the Jomon to the
Edo period. The exhibits on the 1st floor are categorized by genre and include sculptures, ceramics, and swords.
TOYOKAN (Asian Gallery): This building is dedicated to artworks and archeological artifacts from China, the Korean Peninsula, Southeast
Asia, Central Asia, India, Egypt, and other regions.
HEISEIKAN: The Japanese Archaeology Gallery located on the 1st floor displays objects, such as dogu and haniwa clay figurines as well as
bronze bells, dating from the Paleolithic through to the Edo period; the Thematic Exhibition Room, also on the first floor, is used for thematicand educational displays.
The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures: This building exhibits objects selected from over 300 cultural properties donated to the Imperial Family by
Horyuji Temple in Nara.
HYOKEIKAN: This building has been used for special exhibitions and special events in recent years.
Kuroda Memorial Hall: This building was built through a bequest from one of the most renowned painters of modern Japan, Kuroda Seiki, andis used to exhibit his works.
●Thematic Exhibitions

Thematic exhibitions focus on specific themes and are held as part of the Museum’s regular exhibitions. The following are examples of thosescheduled for fiscal year 2018 (the dates given are tentative):
・The Masks of Japan: Gods and Demons in Noh and Kyogen (March 20–April 22, 2018)
・Newly Designated National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties (April 17–May 6, 2018)
・The 150th Anniversary of the Meiji Restoration: The Meiji Era in Calligraphy and Painting (July 10–September 2, 2018)
・Wayang: Traditional Indonesian Puppet Theater (September 4–December 25, 2018)
・Raphael Collin and Kuroda Seiki (January 22–April 14, 2019)

Poster advertising theM u s e u m ’s e x t e n d e dopening hours

11

Family Gallery: Diving into Screen Paintings (July 4–
September 3, 2017)

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

Special Exhibition: Echoes of a Masterpiece: The
Lineage of Beauty in Japanese Art (April 13–May
27, 2018)

●Special Exhibitions
Special exhibitions are held to share the results of our research and to meet visitor demand. The following are examples of special exhibitions
scheduled for the fiscal year 2018:
・Celebrating the 130th Anniversary of KOKKA and the 140th Anniversary of The Asahi Shimbun: Echoes of a Masterpiece: The Lineage of Beauty inJapanese Art (April 13 – May 27, 2018)
・JOMON: 10,000 Years of Prehistoric Art in Japan (July 3 – September 2, 2018)
・Collaborative Exhibition Project between the Tokyo National Museum and the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Marcel Duchamp and Japanese Art (October
2 – December 9, 2018)
・The Buddhist Sculptures of Daiho’onji: Masterpieces by Kaikei and Jokei (October 2 – December 9, 2018)
・Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship between Japan and the People’s Republic of China: Special Thematic
Exhibition: Qi Baishi: Master of Modern Chinese Painting (provisional title) (October 30 – December 25, 2018)
・Unrivaled Calligraphy: Yan Zhenqing and His Legacy (January 16 – February 24, 2019)●Overseas Exhibition
・Japonisme 2018: JOMON: 10,000 Years of Prehistoric Art in Japan (provisional title), Maison de laculture de Japon à Paris, France (October– December 2018) (provisional)■Acquisition, Preservation, and Restoration

The Museum seeks to create a comprehensive display of Asian cultural properties with a focus on Japan through the acquisition of works of art by purchase, gift, and loan. We also carry out a variety of collection management measures to allow deteriorated objects to be safely exhibited in the future. These
measures include enhancing gallery and storage environments, improving display and transportation
methods, conducting collection assessment, as well as performing about 90 full restorations and 500
emergency treatments of works annually.

■Education

To provide a better museum experience for visitors, we offer opportunities for as many people as possible to get to know the museum, and help them to develop a deeper understanding of Japanese andAsian culture. Through collaboration with schools and developing volunteer activities, we strive to establish a pioneering model for engaging museum projects and promote effective educational programs thatreflect our role as a leading museum in Japan.
○Providing learning opportunities
Gallery talks, seminars, lecture series, workshops, “behind the scenes” tours introducing the Museum’s
preservation and restoration work, and other exhibition-related events.
○Educational and thematic exhibits called “Family Galleries”○Collaboration with schools
School programs (art appreciation programs, work experience programs, and programs for visually impaired students)
Teacher training (in relation to Special Exhibitions and Regular Exhibitions)○Partnerships with universities
Campus Members System and internship programs for graduate students○Volunteer activities
Assistance for educational activities, visitor information, and guided tours

Kids’ Day activity: Welcome to theTokyo National Museum Theatre!
(July 30, 2017)

Lifelong learning volunteer using atactile map in an activity to introduce
visitors to the Museum■Research

We conduct research on cultural properties originating in Asia, with a focus on Japan. Research outcomes are reflected in the museum’s collection, preservation, and exhibition activities. Research is partially supported by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research and other grants for cultural activities. Research
conducted in fiscal year 2018 includes the following:・Joint research on Buddhist art etc., using optical technology
・Research relating to The Masks of Japan: Gods and Demons in Noh and Kyogen and other Thematic
Exhibitions
・Research relating to cultural heritage preserved in shrines and temples in the Kanto region
・Special Research Projects on the Treasures of the Horyu-ji Temple donated to the Imperial Householdin 1878, including calligraphy, decorative arts, sculpture, and painting

Brief History

1872: Opened as the Museum of the Ministry of Education, on theoccasion of Japan’s first public exposition held by the ministry
in the Yushima Seido, Tokyo.
1875: Transferred to the Ministry of the Interior. The museum hadeight exhibition categories at this time: natural products,
agriculture & forestation, industrial technology, art, history,
education, religion, and army and navy.
1882: M oved to the present location, a site formerly occupied by theheadquarters of Kan’eiji temple.
1889: Reorganized as the Imperial Museum under the supervision of
the Imperial Household Agency.
1900: R
 enamed the Tokyo Imperial Household Museum.
1909: H yokeikan opened.
1923: F ormer Honkan building destroyed in the Great Kanto
Earthquake.
1925: N atural history collections transferred to the Tokyo Museum of
the Ministry of Education (present-day National Science
Museum) and other institutions.
1938: Present Honkan building opened.
1947: T ransferred to the Ministry of Education and renamed the
National Museum.
1952: R
 enamed the Tokyo National Museum.
1964: T he Gallery of Horyuji Treasures (inaugural building) opened.
1968: A ffiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs. Toyokan opened.
1984: T he Shiryokan (the Research and Information Center) opened.
1999: The Gallery of Horyuji Treasures (current building) and Heiseikan
opened.
2001: Became the Independent Administrative Institution National
Museums, Tokyo National Museum.
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Institutes for Cultural Heritage as the Tokyo National
Museum.

Research on calligraphy

Facilities （m2）Land Area

120,270（including the Kuroda Memorial Hall and the Yanase Villa）

Buildings

Building Area

Exhibition Buildings

22,438Gross Floor Area

Exhibition Area Total
Repository Area Total

72,222
18,1997,836

HonkanBuilding Area
Exhibition Area

6,602
6,573

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

22,416
4,028

Toyokan

Building Area
Exhibition Area

2,892
4,250

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

12,531
1,373

Heiseikan

Building Area
Exhibition Area

5,542
4,471

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

19,406
2,119

The Gallery of Horyuji
Treasures

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,935
1,462

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

4,031
291

Hyokeikan

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,130
1,179

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

2,077
0

Kuroda Memorial Hall

Building Area
Exhibition Area

724
264

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

1,996
25

OthersBuilding Area

3,613

Gross Floor Area

9,765

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201812

Kyoto National Museum
The Kyoto National Museum collects, preserves, manages, and exhibits cultural properties, while also conducting research and educational activities. It focuses on culturalproperties from the Heian period to the Edo period, a time when Kyoto was the capitalof Japan.

SASAKI Johei
Executive Director
Kyoto National Museum

Kyoto served as Japan’s Imperial capital for over 1,000 years, from the relocation of the capital in794, which marked the beginning of the Heian period, right through to the Meiji Restoration in
1868.
The Kyoto National Museum showcases numerous cultural assets that testify to the glory of
the city’s cultural heritage and presents Japan’s traditional culture to the world through various
activities. We will continue to work towards the realization of the museum’s great mission of
spreading awareness of Japanese traditional culture throughout the world. To this end, the museum
strives to encourage people in all walks of life to take an interest in and visit the museum. Our aim is
to create a “people-centric museum” that is also a “museum with deep roots in the local community.”
We would like our museum to be a place for education, a place where people can relax, a place forlifelong learning, and also a place that will attract both domestic and overseas tourists. The new
Heisei Chishinkan Wing opened in September 2014. We anticipate that the new facilities andfunctions of the Heisei Chishinkan Wing will help to make the Kyoto National Museum even more
popular with visitors.
2017 marked the 120th anniversary of the founding of the Kyoto National Museum. Taking thefundamental role of museums as our starting point, we will be implementing a variety of different
activities with renewed vigor, thereby proactively promoting the Museum’s continued development.

■Exhibitions●Collection Galleries
The Collection Galleries in the Heisei Chishinkan Wing, which opened in September 2014, include thematic galleries for ceramics, archeological relics, paintings, calligraphy, decorative and applied arts,and sculpture. The galleries showcase some of the finest pieces from the Museum’s 14,000 items(including items on long-term loan), and enable visitors to experience some of the most outstanding
examples of Kyoto’s unique cultural heritage. The items on display are changed periodically, so visitors
can expect to see different items on subsequent visits.
●Special Exhibitions
・The Genius of Ike no Taiga: Carefree Traveler, Legendary Painter (April 7–May 20, 2018)
・Swords of Kyoto: Master Craftmanship from an Elegant Culture (September 29–November 25, 2018)
・Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship between Japan and thePeople’s Republic of China: Special Thematic Exhibition: Qi Baishi: Master of Modern Chinese Painting(provisional title)(January 30-March 17, 2019)

Kyoto National Museum 120th Anniversary
Commemorative Special Exhibition
Kaihō Yūshō(April 11–May 21, 2017)

Kyoto National Museum 120th Anniversary
Commemorative Special Exhibition
National Treasures: Masterpieces of Japan(October 3–November 26, 2017)

Heisei Chishinkan

Feature Exhibition
Hidden Treasures from a Merchant’s
Storehouse: The Hiromi collection, aLegacy of Elegant Living(February 3–March 18, 2018)■Collection, Preservation, and Restoration of Cultural Properties
Since the museum’s establishment, numerous treasures from historical temples and shrines havebeen entrusted to the Kyoto National Museum. Meanwhile, the number of cultural properties in the collection has increased yearly through purchases and donations, with a focus on art or archaeologicalitems related to Kyoto culture. These cultural properties must be restored and preserved appropriately
so that they may be enjoyed and appreciated by future generations. The Conservation Center for Cultural Properties, the first comprehensive conservation facility for cultural properties in Japan, was established in 1980 to meet that need.

■Educational Activities

The Conservation Center for Cultural
Properties

We undertake a variety of activities via our exhibitions, website, and outreach to schools, in order to help people learn more about the museum’s exhibitions and collections, and to stimulate interest and concern for cultural properties.

13

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

○Activities held to enhance understanding of exhibition contents and exhibits
・The museum holds various lectures and seminars including the Saturday Lectures and Commemorative Lectures. It also operates the “Museum
Cart” hands-on experience booths (staffed by “Kyo-Haku Navigator” volunteers), and implements various types of workshops, as well as distributing
museum guide brochures, explanatory sheets, and the “Museum Dictionary,” etc.
○Activities held to stimulate interest in cultural properties
・The museum organizes summer lectures, symposiums and other lecture events, as well as arranging visits to elementary schools and junior highschools in Kyoto by “Cultural Property Sommeliers” making use of high-resolution digital reproductions of important works of art (Cultural Heritage
Familiarization Classes), and organizing workshops in locations outside the museum.
○The museum works closely with educational institutions, organizing
collaborative events.
・The collaboration between the museum and the university sector includes the Campus Members System, the giving of lectures on historical, cultural and sociological topics by our curators at the Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University,and the training of “Cultural Property Sommeliers,” as well as theholding of training sessions for visit-based learning activities andteacher education.
○Support for volunteer activities
・Implementation of the “Kyo-Haku Navigator” and “Cultural Property
Sommeliers” systems, and training of “Kyo-Haku Navigator” and“Let’s play the Kai-awase shell-matching“Cultural Property Sommelier” volunteers.
game!” Museum Kids! Fair in Minamisoma
2017 activity (October 9, 2017)“Museum Cart” activity led bya Kyo-Haku Navigator■Research
Since 1979, the Museum has been implementing an ongoing, comprehensive survey of cultural
assets owned by old temples and shrines in the Kinki region of Japan, centered on Kyoto. As part ofthese efforts, over a four-year period starting in 2016, we have been implementing a Comprehensive
Research Program on the Buddhist Culture and History of the Kawachi Region, with KAKENHI(government-funded grants-in-aid for scientific research) funding support. This program involves
conducting a survey of the cultural heritage of shrines and temples in the Osaka and Kawachi
regions. The Museum also continues to undertake research on its collections; the research results
are reflected in the Museum’s displays and published in the Kyoto National Museum Bulletin.

KAKENHI-funded research underway at
the Kanshin-ji Temple in Kawachinagano
City■Other Activities○Rakugo at the Museum
As part of the Museum’s efforts to create a “people-centric museum,” Kyoto National Museum haslaunched the “Rakugo at the Museum” project, whereby performances of Rakugo (traditional comic
storytelling, which originated in Kyoto and is an important aspect of Japanese traditional culture) are
held on a regular basis.

“Rakugo at the Museum” performance

Brief History

Facilities

1889: Established as the Imperial Museum of Kyoto under the supervision of the Imperial Household Agency Ｍinistry
1897: F irst exhibition held
1900: R
 enamed as the Imperial Household Museum of Kyoto
1924: D onated to Kyoto City; renamed as the Imperial Gift Museumof Kyoto
1952: T ransferred to the national government; renamed as the Kyoto National Museum
1966: Establishment of the Collections Hall
1968: Affiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs
1969: T he Special Exhibition Hall, Main Gate, ticket booth and fences are designated as an Important Cultural Property under
the name of the Former Imperial Museum of Kyoto
1973: T he Saturday lecture series starts
1980: T he Conservation Center for Cultural Properties established
2001: T he South Gate constructed as part of the 100th Year Anniversary Hall construction project（tentative name）
2001: Transformed into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Museum, Kyoto National Museum
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, as Kyoto National
Museum2009: R econstruction begins on the former Collection Hall
2013: C onstruction of Heisei Chishinkan Wing（new Collection Hall）
is completed in August
2014: H eisei Chishinkan Wing is scheduled to open in September

Land Area

2

（m ）
			

Buildings

Building Area

Exhibition Buildings

13,517Gross Floor Area

Exhibition Area Total
Repository Area Total

53,182
31,828
5,657
5,421

Special Exhibition Hall
(Currently closed)

Building Area
Exhibition Area

3,015
2,070

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

3,015
803

Heisei Chishinkan Wing

Building Area
Exhibition Area

5,568
3,587

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

17,9972,710

Former Administration
Building
Building Area

590

Gross Floor Area

1,954

Materials Building

Building Area

414

Gross Floor Area

1,125

Conservation Center for
Cultural Properties
Building Area

728

Gross Floor Area

2,856Technical Materials
CenterBuilding Area

101

Gross Floor Area

304

East Repository(Under construction)

Building Area
1,084
			

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

1,996
1,412

North Repository

Building Area
310
			

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

682
496

OthersBuilding Area

Gross Floor Area

1,899

1,707

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201814

Nara National Museum
Nara National Museum collects, preserves, manages and displays cultural properties,
while also conducting research and providing educational programs. The focus is on
Buddhist art and the cultural properties of Nara.
Since its opening in 1895, with the cooperation of temples and shrines of the Nara region,
the Nara National Museum has been engaged in collecting, preserving, and conducting
research and educational programs on cultural properties mainly associated with Buddhism.
Through these activities, the museum has introduced to the public the high artistic
value and historical background of Japanese Buddhist culture, unique in its fusion withindigenous beliefs. Keeping in mind that various cultural properties are tied together in an
organic whole with the historical and cultural landscape of Nara, we will continuously strive
to promote the museum’s international activities and the more effective use of information
technology in order to reach a wide range of people as a conveyor of Nara’s culture.

■Exhibitions
MATSUMOTO Nobuyuki
Executive Director
Nara National Museum●Buddhist Art Exhibitions
As well as special exhibitions and feature exhibitions, the museum also exhibits distinguished masterworks of
Buddhist art including many designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. The Nara Buddist Sculpture Hall features ”Masterpieces of Buddhist Sculpture”, which displays exceptional Buddist statues
representative of the history of Japanese sculpture from the Asuka to the Kamakura period, dating from aroundthe 7th century to the mid-14th century. The Ritual Bronzes Gallery connected by a corridor features fineworks of Chinese ancient bronzes. The West Wing houses ”Masterpieces of Buddhist Art” which introduces theessence of Japanese Buddhist art through selected items of painting, decorative art, calligraphy and artifacts.
In addition, thematic exhibitions from the permanent collection are occasionally held for themes that lie outside
a specific genre.

●Feature Exhibitions
Feature exhibitions are medium-scale exhibitions organized to explore a specific theme.
・On-Matsuri and the Sacred Art of Kasuga (December 11, 2018–January 20, 2019)
・Treasures of Tōdaiji’s Omizutori Ritual (February 8–March 14, 2019)
・Special Exhibition to Mark the 770th Anniversary of the Passing Away of Kakujo Shoin: Toshodai-ji Temple and the Revival of Monastic Precepts in
the Kamakura Period (provisional title) (February 8–March 14, 2019)●Special Exhibitions
・Commemorating 1250 Years Since the Founding – Kasuga Taisha: Centuries of Worship Revealed in Sacred Treasures (April 14–June 10, 2018)
・Commemorating the Completion of Conservation Work – Threads of Devotion – National Treasure: The Taima Mandala Tapestry and Embroidered
Buddhist Imagery (July 14–August 26, 2018)
・The 70th Annual Exhibition of Shōsō-in Treasures (Autumn 2018) (provisional)

The Buddhist Master Sculptor Kaikei:
Timeless Beauty from the Kamakura Period(April 8–June 4, 2017)

Millennial Memorial Exhibition: Imaging theAfterlife – Hells and Paradise Envisionedby the Buddhist Prelate Genshin(July 15–September 3, 2017)

The 69th Annual Exhibition of Shōsō-in
Treasures(October 28–November 13, 2017)■Collection, Preservation, and Restoration of Cultural Properties
We strive to collect tangible cultural properties, which are valuable assets for the people of Japan, by purchase, donation and loan.
We work to maintain the environment for our collections with meticulous care, by constantly controlling the temperature and humidity in our
exhibition and storage areas.
Most Japanese cultural properties are made of extremely fragile materials such as paper and wood. Therefore, the museum must take proactive
steps to preserve these objects for future generations. For this reason, in 2002, we established the Conservation Center for Cultural Properties tohandle restoration projects by restorers.

15

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

■Educational Programs
We promote a variety of educational programs to increase the understanding of theimportance of cultural properties.
①Collection and distribution of information and materials concerning cultural properties②Programs for students
Ex: World heritage classes (mainly for elementary school students) and educational
lectures for teachers③Lectures and seminars
Ex: Public lectures, Sunday museum talks, summer seminar series, the Shōsō-in academic symposium, and international symposia④Cooperation with universities and colleges
Ex: Campus Members System, internship programs, and joint lectures with Nara Women’s University and Kobe University⑤Promotion of volunteer activities■Research and Survey Activities
We consider research into cultural properties to be the most important activity supporting the foundations of the Nara National Museum as a research institution. Reflected in
the museum’s masterpiece exhibitions and special exhibitions, the results of research
are utilized in our exhibition activities. Reference materials collected through research
are available to the public at the Buddhist Art Library. In fiscal year 2018 the Nara National Museum will conduct the following thematic research:①Research on collection items, items on loan to the museum, and related items②Research on Buddhist paintings alongside the creation of reproductions③Fundamental research on ancient Buddhist scriptures and sutra-copying④Comprehensive survey of Buddhist arts and crafts and ancient arts and crafts⑤Research on artifacts excavated from ancient tombs⑥Research on the art of sculpture in ancient and medieval Nara
⑦Research on Buddhist art using optical technologies, conducted in collaboration with
the Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties⑧Research to accompany thematic exhibitions⑨Research to accompany special exhibitions, etc.
⑩Research to contribute to educational programs in history and traditional culture⑪Research into the effects on cultural properties of storage area environments, exhibition spaces and display cases⑫Research on collections and objects loaned to the museum, from the perspective of
cultural asset restoration⑬Research on collections and objects loaned to the museum, from the perspective ofconservation science⑭Theory and practice-based study of establishing cultural property archives

Brief History

1889: Established as the Imperial Museum of Nara under
the supervision of the Imperial Household Ministry
1895: First exhibition held (April 29)
1900: Renamed as the Imperial Household Museum of Nara
1914: Establishment of the Shōsō-in Department
1947: Supervision transferred to the Ministry of Education
1950: Affiliated with the National Commission for the Protection of Cultural Properties
1952: Renamed as the Nara National Museum
1968: Affiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs
1973: Opening of the West Wing
1980: Establishment of the Buddhist Art Library
1995: Celebration of the museum’s centennial anniversary
1998: Opening of the East Wing
2001: Becomes the Independent Administrative Institution
National Museum, Nara National Museum
2002: Opening of the Conservation Center for Cultural Properties
The main building’s repository reopend as the RitualBronzes Gallery
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, as the
Nara National Museum
2010: T he main building renamed as the Nara Buddhist
Sculpture Hall
2016: Nara Buddhist Sculpture Hall reopening after restoration (April 29)

Volunteer activity

Summer seminar: Hells, Paradise, andthe Sacred Art of the Jodo Shin Sect inprogress

Fudo Goma fire ritual survey andphotographic recording in progress

Venue leasing to ensure effective utilizationof the Museum facilities: Persimmon Day

Facilities

（m2）

Land Area				

Buildings

Building Area

Exhibition Buildings

6,769

			
			

19,116

Exhibition Area Total 4,079
Repository Area Total 1,558

Nara Buddhist Sculpture
Hall

Building Area
Exhibition Area

Ritual Bronzes Gallery

Building Area
Exhibition Area

East Wing

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,825
875

Gross Floor Area
Repository Area

6,389
1,522

West Wing

Building Area
Exhibition Area

1,649 Gross Floor Area
1,473		

5,396

Buddhist Art Library

Building Area

718

Gross Floor Area

718

Conservation Center for
Cultural Properties

Building Area

319

Gross Floor Area

1,036

Lower Level
Passageway

Gross Floor Area

2,152

Repository Area

164

405

Gross Floor Area

1,249

OthersBuilding Area

1,512
1,261

Gross Floor Area

78,760Gross Floor Area

1,512

341 Gross Floor Area
470		

664

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201816

Kyushu National Museum
Kyushu National Museum collects, preserves, manages and displays cultural properties, while also conducting research and providing educational programs. The focus ison cultural properties related to Japan’s cultural exchanges with other Asian regions.
Kyushu, the westernmost main island of Japan, which is situated close to continental Asia, has been thestage for vibrant exchanges of people and objects since ancient times. Delegations from overseas werewelcomed at the Dazaifu Government Office, which was situated near the museum’s current location. Thishistorical background, and the aspirations of the people of Kyushu, led to the establishment, in 2005
in Dazaifu City, Fukuoka, of a national museum that focuses on the development of Japanese culture in
relation to the surrounding Asian regions.
The Museum has now received a cumulative total of over 15 million visitors since it first opened. The
last few years have seen a pronounced increase in the number of visitors from China, Korea, Vietnam andThailand.
In the future, the Museum will continue to carry out a wide range of research work and other activities
aimed at furthering mutual understanding between Asian cultures, while also striving to be a museumthat is relevant to, and of value to, the local community.

SHIMATANI Hiroyuki
Executive Director
Kyushu National Museum■Exhibitions●Cultural Exchange Exhibition（Permanent Exhibition）

In order to provide our visitors with opportunities to experience new works each time they visit, Feature Exhibitions
are held in the Cultural Exchange Exhibition Gallery. We also strive to create more dynamic and in-depth exhibitions
through the use of videos and hands-on displays.

●Feature Exhibitions

Cultural Exchange Exhibition(Permanent Exhibition)

The main Feature Exhibitions scheduled for fiscal year 2018 are as follows:・Rich World of Tea Ceremony VIII: Hakata Bunrin and the Tea utensils handed down in the Kuroda Family (April 10June 3, 2018)
・Thousand-armed Kannon (Sahasrabhuja) and Followers in Ninnaji Temple (July 3-September 2, 2018)
・National Treasure: Images on Ritual Bronze Bells (July 10-September 2, 2018)
・ALL-JAPAN HIGH SCHOOL ARCHAEOLOGICAL LEGACY 2018 (July 21-September 9, 2018)
・HOKUSAI, NABESHIMA and Masterpieces of the eminent gallerist “Goro SAKAMOTO” (September 12-October 21,
2018)・50th Anniversary of Dazaifu Historic Site Excavation: Research on the History of Dazaifu (September 12-December
23, 2018)
・Matsura Family Legacy: The Ino Map (October 30-December 23,2018)
・Beads: The Colourful Treasure from Antiquity (January 1-February 24, 2019)●Special Exhibitions
・Impressionist Masterpieces from the E.G. Buehrle Collection, Zurich (Switzerland) (May 19–July 16, 2018)
・OKURA COLLECTION (October 2-December 9, 2019)・Daigoji Temple: A Shingon Esoteric Buddhist Universe in Kyoto (January 29–March 24, 2019)■Collection, Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Properties
Feature Exhibition: Prominent Zen
Priests, Hakuin and Sengai(January 1 – February 12, 2018)●Collection

The Museum puts an emphasis on collecting cultural heritage such as fine art, decorative art, archeologicalmaterials, historical documents and folk materials that help visitors more easily understand the cultural exchanges
between Japan and the rest of Asia as well as the origins of Japanese culture. Moreover, in an effort to further
improve displays and exhibitions, we proactively invite temples, shrines and private individuals to donate or entrust
their cultural properties to us.

●Preservation

Special Exhibition: Wang Xizhi andJapanese Calligraphy(February 10 – April 8, 2018)

The “storage rooms” of the Museum are where important cultural properties are preserved and stored. They feature
a double-walled structure, designed to prevent external air from outside the Museum from directly reaching thecultural properties, and are located in the heart of the building to minimize changes in temperature and humidity. The
air conditioning facilities also utilize a constant temperature humidistat, which allows the temperature and humidityof the storage area to be constantly maintained at more or less the same level. Additionally, the walls and ceiling ofeach storage room are made from materials procured from local suppliers in Kyushu, such as cedar, to help ensure
an appropriate humidity level without overly depending on air conditioning devices. The Museum was constructed asa seismically isolated structure, to prevent cultural properties from damage caused such as by toppling over during
earthquakes. The building does not receive a direct impact in the event of an earthquake, and this helps protect thepriceless cultural properties located inside.

●Restoration

The six conservation and restoration facilities at the Museum（respectively specializing in: the production of paper andother materials used for repair; historical materials, calligraphy and documents; paintings; sculptures; archaeologicalartifacts; and lacquerware）work in collaboration with the Museum’s Science Division, combining traditional methods
with scientific research technology. The staff, well experienced in the restoration of Japan’s designated culturalproperties, conduct projects actively through discussions with curators from fields such as history, art, decorative
arts, archaeology and other related areas. The latest technological equipment such as fluorescent X-ray analyzing
devices and X-ray CT scanners are also utilized in the scientific analysis of cultural properties to be restored.

17

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

■Educational and Exchange Activities●Educational Activities① Interactive Exhibition Gallery “Ajippa” showcases the various cultures of regions that had historically interacted with Japan. Other efforts include
areas such as educational kits development, visitor experience programs, and collaborative programs with other educational institutions.
② Educational programs in association with special exhibitions and the Cultural Exchange Exhibition (permanent exhibition)
・Programs to improve exhibition understanding
・Conducting of workshops
・Production of guidebooks③ “Kyupack” - educational kits to be used in secondary schools④ Campus Members System to strengthen ties with universities and other higher educational institutions⑤ Educational activities based on “Kyushu National Museum’s picture books” for children⑥ Supporting volunteer activities
We encourage various volunteer activities at the museum in areas including exhibition explanations,educational programs, guided tours（including behind the scenes ”Backyard Tours”）, the environment,
events, and Data compilation.
Volunteer Program: Kyushu
National Museum
Children’s Festival●Exchange Activities①Implementing exchange projects in cooperation with local enterprises for more effective utilization of museum facilities.
②Promoting exchange among Asian museums
Conclusion of cultural exchange agreements with the Buyeo National Museum (Korea), the Gonguju National Museum (Korea), The Korea National
University of Cultural Heritage, the Nanjing Museum (China), the Museum of Inner Mongolia (China), Chinese Center for Cultural Exchange, Sichuan
Museum (Chengdu, China), Shenyang Imperial Palace Museum (China), the Vietnam National Museum of History, and the Fine Arts Department of
the Ministry of Culture (Thailand)③Hosting international symposia and lecture events■Research and Survey Activities
The results of research concerning our main theme of “Cultural Exchange between Japan and Asian Countries”
and scientific research on conservation and restoration of cultural properties are actively utilized for ourcollection, preservation and exhibition activities. Part of our research is financially supported by the governmentfunded Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research（KAKENHI）and other private grants for cultural activities.
・Research on using X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanning to analyze the structure of culture heritage
artifacts・Research on Christianity in Early Modern Japan・Research relating to thematic exhibitions and special displays, including National Treasure: Images on RitualBronze Bells and ALL-JAPAN HIGH SCHOOL ARCHAEOLOGICAL LEGACY 2018, etc.
・Research relating to special exhibitions, including OKURA COLLECTION, etc.
・Research on educational outreach programs aimed at enhancing museum visitors’ understanding through theuse of explanatory panels, booklets, workshops, etc. tailored to exhibition themes
・Research on the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage in museums
・Research on the continued use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in museum crisis management
・Research on improving and expanding the system for safeguarding underwater archeological sites

Investigating the state of preservation of the Rakuchu Rakugai Zu(Scenes In and Around Kyoto)folding screen■Publications
The museum produces publications to promote a wider understanding of our activitiesi） Tofu-seisei（Research Bulletin）: This bulletin summarizes the results of the Museum’s investigative research efforts（published annually）
ii） Asiage（Visual guide）: A guide providing information on Cultural Exchange Exhibition (permanent exhibition) in an accessible formatiii）	Asiage（Quarterly magazine）: An information magazine focusing on the Cultural Exchange Exhibition and special exhibitions（released quarterly)iv）	Picture Book Series: The Museum produces original picture books for children about Japanese history format to encourage understanding andfamiliarity.

Brief History

1994: T he Agency for Cultural affairs（ACA）organized the “committee to investigate the establishment of a new concept-based museum (the Committee)”.
1996: A CA decided the new museum should be established as the Kyushu National Museum（provisional title）in Dazaifu, Fukuoka.
1997: T he Committee drew up the “basic framework for Kyushu National Museum（provisional title）”.
1999: T he Committee made the “basic plan for Kyushu National Museum（provisional title）”.
2000: A CA, Fukuoka Prefecture, and the Kyushu National Museum Promotion
Foundation（the Foundation）jointly formulated the “basic construction
design” for the Museum.
	The ACA and Fukuoka Prefecture jointly organized “experts conference
for the establishment of Kyushu National Museum (provisional title)” developed the “permanent exhibition plan”.
2001: A CA, Fukuoka Prefecture and the Foundation jointly completed the “basic
exhibition design”.
	The Independent Administrative Institution National Museum (the National Museum) established the “preparatory office for the establishmentof the Kyushu National Museum”.
2002: A CA, Fukuoka Prefecture and the Foundation jointly launched the “construction works (the first year of a three-year plan)”.
2003: T he National Museum and Fukuoka Prefecture launched the “preparationof the exhibitions (the first year of a two-year plan”.
2004: A CA, Fukuoka Prefecture and the Foundation completed the “construction
works”.

	ACA, the National Museum and Fukuoka Prefecture officially named theMuseum as “Kyushu National Museum”.
2005: T he National Museum and Fukuoka Prefecture completed the “preparationof the exhibitions”.
	The National Museum formally established the Kyushu National Museum.
	Kyushu National Museum opened to the public on 16 October.
2007: T he Kyushu National Museum was merged into the IAI National Institutes
for Cultural Heritage（NICH）.
2008: J apan-China-ROK Trilateral Summit Meeting was held at the Kyushu National Museum.
2012: KyushuNational Museum welcomed its 10 millionth visitor.
2015: 10th anniversary

Facilities
Land Area
Building（m2）
NICH
Building Area
NICH

Exhibition andExhibition Area Total
Repository Area Prefecture
Repository Area Total
Prefecture

10,798
14,623
9,300
5,444
1,375
4,518
1,335

Prefecture

159,844
149,046

Gross Floor Area
Prefecture
Shared Area

30,675  5,780
15,595NICH 3,844
Shared Area 225
NICH 2,744
Shared Area 439

The land and buildings are co-owned by Fukuoka Prefecture and the institution.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201818

Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

KAMEI Nobuo
Director General
Tokyo National
Reseach Institute forCultural Properties

The Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, in the implementation of its roleof supporting the work of the government in the administration of cultural properties, conducts
fundamental, systematic, up-to-date and practical research on all types of cultural properties, bothtangible and intangible. It actively disseminates the results of such research, provides guidance andadvice to local public organizations regarding the preservation of cultural properties, and conducts
international cooperation activities, with different countries in Asia and other regions of the world,on the protection of cultural properties through the trainings of personnel and the transferring ofconservation and restoration techniques.
The priority areas on which the Institute is focusing in its survey and research work are outlined
below: Firstly, the Institute is working to build up comprehensive archives from the various types ofresearch results, basic databases and source materials that the Institute has collected over theyears. In addition, in the conservation science field, the Institute promotes coordinated projects with
the Independent Administrative Institution, National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, of which theInstitute forms a part, with respect to surveys and research relating to the preservation, restorationand publication of museum materials. Thirdly, in regard to intangible cultural heritage, the Institutecollects basic data and materials nationwide, focusing mainly on performing arts and traditional
techniques, and makes them available to the public, etc.
Besides the above activities, the Institute operates the secretariat office of the Japan
Consortium for International Cooperation in Cultural
Heritage, a base organization for promoting thecoordination and collaboration of Japan's contribution
in this area.

■Organization●Department of Art Research, Archives and Information Systems
The Department of Art Research, Archives and Information Systems collects, preserves,
collates and publicizes information relating to cultural properties, and also undertakes researchon the development of effective methods for the transmission of information, with the aim of
expanding the scope of cultural property archives. At the same time, the Department aims torealize a new kind of information science through measures tackling issues of contemporary
relevance in the fields of cultural properties studies and art history research, etc. The
Department also takes the results obtained in these activities as the basis for managing theinformation systems and public relations activities of the Institute as a whole.

Resource Provider Workshop at the 28th
European Association of Japanese
Resource Specialists●Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Department of Intangible Cultural Heritage conducts basic research useful for theconservation and transmission of intangible cultural heritage, focusing in particular on Japan’s
intangible cultural heritage, which includes intangible cultural properties, intangible folk-culturalproperties, and techniques for preserving cultural properties. Audiovisual documentation, asignificant method for the conservation of intangible cultural heritage, is conducted and new
methods of documentation are also investigated.

Biwa maker, Mr. ISHIDA Katsuyoshi(ISHIDA Fushiki the fifth)●Center for Conservation Science
The Center for Conservation Science implements surveys of cultural property materials,
construction and techniques, and collects information that contributes to a more in-depth
understanding of cultural properties. In addition, it conducts research into the improvement of
restoration materials and techniques and into maintenance management methods; the Center
also implements activities relating to the adoption of new survey techniques. Moreover, thecenter works closely with those who are actually engaged in the conservation and restorationof cultural properties and their owners.

Investigation of colorants of a painting
using portable X-ray fluorescence
spectrometer●Japan Center for International Cooperation in Conservation
The Japan Center for International Cooperation in Conservation renders assistance to various
countries in Asian and other regions of the world through the conservation and restoration
projects of cultural heritage including technical transfer and human resource development.
It also promotes the cooperative networks with other relevant institutions, domestic andinternational, by organizing seminars and meetings. Collection and dissemination of information
on cultural heritage and its protection systems is another important task of the Center.
The center is commissioned with the management of the secretariat for the Japan
Consortium for International Cooperation in Cultural Heritage.

Survey of earthquake damaged buildingsin Bagan Archaeological Zone (Myanmar)

19

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

■Seminar, Advice, and Guidance
The Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties conducts various seminars and provides advice and guidance for the protection andutilization of cultural properties. Seminars and projects include international course on conservation of Japanese paper, training for museum curatorsin charge of conservation, advice on safeguarding intangible cultural properties, inspection assistance and advice on the museum environments, andinvestigation and advice concerning conservation of cultural properties.

International course of conservation ofJapanese paper

Training for museum curators■Graduate School Education and Public Lectures
The Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties provides the results of its research to the public in
the hope of nurturing the next generation of experts and raising public interest. The institute has collaborated with
the Tokyo University of the Arts since 1995 and is in charge of its Preventive Conservation Course. In the public
lectures, the Department of Art Research, Archives and Information Systems, and the Department of Intangible
Cultural Heritage present their research achievements every year.

■Dissemination of Research Information

The 51th Public Lecture

The Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties is engaged in actively
communicating with the public and making the results of its diverse activities
accessible, including those of research and international cooperation. Publications
such as the Annual Report, Leaflet for the 8th Public Profile and TOBUNKENNEWS
are published, and the website of the institute is updated constantly.

TOBUNKEN Resear ch
Collections（http://www.
tobunken.go.jp/archives/）■Publications

The Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties publishes periodicals such as The Bijutsu Kenkyu (The Journal of Art Studies), Yearbookof Japanese Art, Research and Reports on Intangible Cultural Heritage, and Science for Conservation. It also publishes the results of various additional
research studies.

The Bijutsu Kenkyu(Journal of Art Studies)

Brief History

Yearbook of Japanese Art

1930: E stablished as the institute of Art Research. an auxiliary organization of the Imperial
Academy of Fine Arts
1947: Affiliated with the national Museum
1950: A ffiliated with the national Commission for Protection of Cultural Properties
1952: R
 eorganized and renamed as Tokyo Research Institute of Cultural Properties
1954: R
 enamed as Tokyo national Institute of Cultural Properties
1968: A ffiliated with the Agency for Cultural Affairs
2000: C onstruction of new offices
2001: R estructured as the Independent Administrative Institution, National Research Institute for Cultural Properties Tokyo
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution, National Institutes for
Cultural Heritage, as Tokyo National Research Institute for Cutural Properties

Research and Reports
on Intangible Cultural
Heritage

Science for Conservation

Facilities
Land Area
Building（m2）		
Building Area
Gross Floor Area

4,181

2,258
10,516

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201820

Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties

MATSUMURA Keiji
Director General
Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties(President of the National
Institutes for Cultural Heritage)

Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, an organization that engages in the studyof tangible cultural heritage, has conducted excavation research at the Nara and Fujiwara Palacesites, investigated cultural objects（such as historical documents, ancient architecture and gardens）and has also made efforts to preserve the Asuka region through its research and exhibition
programs. These activities contribute to academic exchanges, international support and the studyof cultural heritage in Japan and abroad. For example, they have resulted in ongoing joint research
partnerships with institutes in China and Korea. We also endeavor to develop new excavation technology and research methods as well as to provide technical training for local government specialists.
Our methods of preservation, restoration and maintenance that we developed to protect historical sites are not only appreciated by researchers in Japan, but are also utilized in excavations
globally. Our research activities are supported by our own
interdisciplinary joint research in different fields. It is our
responsibility to maximize the results of our efforts in the
research and preservation of cultural properties.

●Department of Planning and Coordination
The work of the Department of Planning and Coordination is assigned to five sections: the Planning and Coordination Section, the Data and Information Section, the International Cooperation
Section, the Exhibition Section and the Photography Section. These sections plan and organize
professional training programs for cultural heritage workers at local government agencies and other organizations, organize data systems and enhance related databases, arrange international joint
research projects and engage in international cooperation on archaeological sites, exhibit research
results at the Nara Palace Site Museum, and carry out photography and the development of newtechnology.

Gallery Talk activity at the Exhibition Shōsōin at the Nara Palace Site Museum●Department of Cultural Heritage
The Department of Cultural Heritage consists of the Historical Document Section, the Architectural History Section, the Cultural Landscape Section and the Sites Management Research
Section. These sections conduct specialist and comprehensive research in the following areas respectively: calligraphy, ancient books and historical documents; historical and traditional architecture; cultural landscapes; and the maintenance of archaeological sites and historical gardens. The
research activities conducted by each section contribute, in a practical manner, to governmental
activities concerning the protection of cultural properties, such as the designation, selection, registration, conservation and management of properties. The Department also collaborates with, andprovides advice for, local public entities in regard to cultural property administration.

Survey of historic documents held at
Toshodai-ji Temple●Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations
The Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations is organized in five sections: the Archaeology Sections 1, 2 and 3, the History Section, and the Architectural Feature Section. These sections undertake interdisciplinary research on the basis of archeological excavations of ancient palaces, temples, tombs located in the Heijo area and in the Asuka and Fujiwara area. The research
results are publicized through presentations, reports and exhibitions; this research also contributes
to the preservation and effective utilization of these archeological remains.
【Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations（Heijo）】
This Department is in charge of excavation and research at the Nara Palace Site (Special
Historic Site), where the imperial palace and government offices were located in the Nara period（710-784）. Systematic research has been in progress since 1959 and over one-third of the 130
hectare site has been excavated and surveyed so far. The finds from excavation at the sites of thepalace and ancient temples, and such as architectural remains, wooden tablets（used for written
documents）, earthenware vessels and ceramic tiles, have been verified with reference to historical
records; this empirical research on the Nara period undertaken by the Department has won widespread plaudits. The Department also provides the results of its research on the Nara Palace Siteto the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism（MLIT）as basic data to support themaintenance of the national Nara Palace Site Historical Park.

Large well and nearby remains at the East
Palace Site, forming part of the Heijo
Palace (Imperial Palace)【Department of Imperial Palace Sites Investigations（Asuka and Fujiwara）】
The Department is in charge of excavation and research on the Asuka and Fujiwara area that
constituted Japan’s political, economic and cultural center during the period between the 7th
and early 8th centuries when the Japanese state was coming into being. The sites in the Asuka
district include palaces and the residences of elite clans the sites of temples such as Asukadera
temple（the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan）a workshop that produced ancient coins and glassa water clock and various tombs. To the north lies the site of the Fujiwara capital, the first largescale planned city in Japan, covering a vast area of more than five square kilometers. The interdisciplinary, empirical research being conducted based on the excavations of these sites in the Asuka
and Fujiwara areas has made a major contribution towards helping to clarify the historical record of
the Asuka period.

21

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

Excavation of the northeast corner of the
Daigokuden (Imperial Audience Hall) at the
Fujiwara Imperial Site

●Center for Archaeological Operations
The Center for Archaeological Operations consists of four research sections, which undertakepractical research relating to the survey, research and conservation of cultural heritage, as well as
providing training activities based on the Center’s research results, etc. The Conservation Science
Section undertakes both fundamental research and practical research relating to surveys and analysis of the materials and structures of archaeological objects, the insitu display of archaeologicalremains, etc. The Environmental Archaeology Section undertakes research relating to the simulation of ancient environments and how animals and plants were used in the past, etc., through surveys of and research on the remains of flora and fauna. The Dendrochronological Dating Sectionuses the methods of dendrochronology to advance applied research on techniques for determining
the age and origin of wooden cultural heritage items, and for determining how they were made, etc.
The Archaeological Research Methodology Section develops surveying and measurement techniques, with a particular focus on the surveying and measurement of archaeological data, with theaim of furthering the development and effective utilization of methods for researching cultural heritage and archaeology; this Section also undertakes disaster archaeology surveys and research.

Using a drone for 3D photographic surveyingof the Idera Kofun ancient burial mound●Asuka Historical Museum
The Asuka Historical Museum, a facility that showcases the history and culture of the Asuka
Period, was established in 1975 following a decision made by the Japanese Cabinet. Besides theMuseum’s regular exhibitions, which have thematic displays relating to palaces, stone structures,
tombs and temple sites, etc., visitors can also see the reconstructed portion of the eastern cloister of Yamada-dera Temple and objects excavated in and around this site. The Museum holds Special Exhibitions in spring and autumn and Feature Exhibitions in summer and winter, with displays
focused on the history and cultural heritage of the Asuka Period, displays that present the resultsof the wide-ranging research undertaken by the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties in an easy-to-understand way, displays featuring photographs of cultural heritage items, etc.
The Museum also hosts lectures, participatory activities, etc.
Asuka Historical Museum●International Academic Exchange
Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties contributes to international exchange
and collaboration through activities such as joint research, exchange of researchers, technicaltraining, and conservation and restoration. It also participates in international cooperation projects
conducted by other institutions such as ACCU (Asia-Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO).
Ongoing projects are as follows: (1) joint research with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences
into the Northern Wei Luoyang capital site, an ancient capital of the Northern Wei dynasty; (2)joint research with the Archaeological Institute of Henan Province, China, into the Huangye andBaihe kiln sites located in the city of Gongyi; (3) joint research with the Archaeological Instituteof Liaoning Province, China, into excavated artifacts belonging to the San-Yan Culture; (4) acomparative study with the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage, Korea, of ancient
capitals of Japan and Korea, together with human resource exchanges at excavation projects;(5) research and a conservation project, undertaken with Cambodia’s Authority for the Protection
and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap (APSARA), at the Western Prasat
Top, one of the historical sites of Angkor, together with human resource development. We havealso been commissioned by the Agency for Cultural Affairs to collaborate with the Departmentof Archaeology, National Museum and Library, Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture, Myanmar,on technology transfer and human resources development in the field of archaeology, especiallymethods of excavating archaeological sites and investigating artifacts from the site.

International project for conservation ofWestern Prasat Top, Angkor●Publications
Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties publishes periodicals such as Overview of Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, BULLETIN Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, NABUNKEN NEWS and CAO NEWS Centre for Archaeological Operations. It
also publishes the results of various additional research studies.

Brief History

1952: Nara Cultural Properties Research Institute（consistingof the General Affairs Division, the Historical Research
Division, the Architecture Research Division, and the Art
Research Division）is established at 50 Kasugano-cho,Nara City, as an auxiliany organization of the National
Commission for the Protection of Cultural Properties
1954: R enamed as the Nara National Cultural Palace Site in
Sakihigashi-machi, Nara City
1960: T he office of the Heijo Palace Site Investigations opened in
the former Nara Place Site in Sakihigashi-machi, Nara City
1963: H eijo Palace Site Investigation Division is established
1968: A ffillated with the Agency for Culthural Affairs（established1968）
1970: N ara Palace Site Museum opened
1973: F inance Section, Asuka/Fujiwara Palace Site Investigation
Division, and Asuka Historical Museum established
1974: D epartment of General Affairs and the Center for
Archaeological Operations established
1975: Asuka Historical Museum opened at Okuyama in Asuka
Village, Nara
1980: A rt Research Division transferred to the Research Center
for Buddhist Art, Nara National Museum
1980: R elocated to Nijo-cho, Nara City. Heijo Palace Site
Investigation Division and the Center for Archaeclogicaloperations are transferred together to the new site.
1988: N ew headquarters building of Asuka/Fujiwara Palace
Site Investigation Division built at 94-1 Kinomoto-cho,Kashihara City
2001: Restructured as the Independent Administrative Institution
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, Nara
2007: Integrated into the Independent Administrative Institution
National Institute for Cultural Heritage, as the Nara
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties.
2013: Relocated to temporary premises Iocated at 247-1 Sakicho, Nara City, while the original head office site is being

redeveloped.
2018: Following the completion of the Institute’s new premises,
the Institute is scheduled to relocate to the new facility
from its temporary premises.

Facilities

（m2）
Land Area

Headquarters Area

Building
Building Area
8,879 Gross Floor Area

2,812
11,387

Located on government-owned Building Arealand, rent fees waivered Gross Floor Area

13,32821,395

Fujiwara Area

Building Area
20,515 Gross Floor Area

6,016
9,477

Asuka Area

Building Area
17,093 Gross Floor Area

2,657
4,404

Heijo Area

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201822

International Research Centre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region（IRCI）
At the 35th Session of UNESCO General Conference of October 2009, approval was given
to Japan to establish an international research centre for intangible cultural heritage in the
Asia-Pacific region. After this approval, the Japanese government concluded an agreementwith UNESCO in August 2010, and established the International Research Centre for
Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region (IRCI) in Sakai City in October
2011, as a Category 2 Centre under the auspices of UNESCO (institutions that serve tocontribute to the achievement of UNESCO’s strategic objectives).

IWAMOTO Wataru
Director-General
International ResearchCentre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the
Asia-Pacific Region

IRCI’s objectives are to promote the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of theIntangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) and its implementation, and to enhance the safeguardingof ICH through instigating and coordinating research in the Asia-Pacific region. Today,
many elements of ICH are endangered all over the world due to various factors. The
safeguarding of ICH is now undeniably an urgent issue. IRCI collaborates with universities
and research institutions in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region to promote research on thepractices and methodologies of ICH safeguarding.

■Activity Plan for FY 2018IRCI promotes research as an international research hub for ICH safeguarding in the AsiaPacific region while contributing to the enhancement of ICH safeguarding using Japan’s longterm experience in cultural heritage management. The focus of activities will be:
１． Promoting Research for ICH Safeguarding
２． Research on Endangered ICH and the Role of ICH for Disaster Risk Management
３． Cooperation with Sakai City for Promoting ICH
In FY 2018, IRCI will conduct the following projects.
●Promoting Research for ICH Safeguarding
１． Literature Survey
30 countries have been studied as of March 2018. In FY 2018, IRCI will survey three
more countries. Cooperation with local researchers and institutions have enabled
access in gaining information on literature and reports written in local languages.
IRCI will publish the final report in FY2018, which contains the summary of the entire
project, outcomes and lessons learned.
２． IRCI Research Database
For the purpose of making widely available the research information of relevant
literature, experts and institutions collected in the past years, IRCI has been managing

Discussion at National Commission for Culture
and the Arts
(Manila, Philippines, February 2018)

an online research database since September 2014, which currently consists ofover 2,300 entries as of March 2018（https://www.irci.jp/ichdb/）. In FY 2018, newinformation obtained through the literature survey will be added to the database and aneeds assessment of the database will be conducted in the future.
3． M ulti-disciplinary Study on ICH’s Contribution to Sustainable Development : Focusing on
Education
In FY 2018-2019, IRCI implements a project to promote the contribution of ICH toTarget 4 of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which focuses on education. IRCI
will coordinate research to be undertaken by several institutions through the project.
An appropriate input will be provided from IRCI to those institutions at each stage ofplanning, monitoring and reviewing of the project. In FY 2018, guidelines to utilise
ICH for education are to be developed in cooperation with the National Commission
for Culture and the Arts in the Philippines, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and theVietnam Institute of Educational Sciences.

23

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

Discussion at Vietnam Museum of Ethnology(Ha Noi, Viet Nam, February 2018)

●Research on Endangered ICH and the Role of ICH for Disaster Risk Management
１． Asia-Pacific Regional Workshop on ICH and Natural Disasters
In FY 2018, IRCI organises a regional workshop in cooperation with the Tokyo
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties based on the outcome of thepreliminary research, which was conducted in FY 2016-2017. This workshop
aims to discuss various issues related to the safeguarding of ICH in the context
of natural disasters and the role of ICH for disaster risk management. The project
report will be published in FY 2018, which includes practical recommendations for
ICH safeguarding and disaster risk management.
２． Study of Emergency Protection of ICH in Conflict-Affected Countries in Asia
This project, implemented in FY 2017-2020, examines ICH under conflict-affected

Villagers discussing their own ICH at a community
workshop (Gaua, Vanuatu, July 2017)

situations, and specify the risk factors that threaten the viability of ICH. Throughvarious case studies, the project will determine possible safeguarding measuresand methodologies for mapping a community’s ICH in conflict-affected situations.
The project is expected to promote a community-based approach. In FY 2018, IRCI
conducts data collection and a survey on the current situation of ICH in Sri Lanka,
Timor-Leste and Afghanistan, and invites participants from the aforementioned
countries and ICH experts to organise workshops. The workshops will discuss
the progress and challenges of the survey, possible safeguarding measures andeffective strategies for assessing a community’s ICH.
●Cooperation with Sakai City for Promoting ICH
IRCI disseminates information and a clear image of ICH widely to Japanese people , andprovides them with various opportunities to learn about ICH in cooperation with Sakai
City. For instance, Sakai City and the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage have been
co-hosting an annual symposium on cultural heritage since FY 2015. At this event,
IRCI’s information panels are displayed and publications are distributed. In FY 2018,
this event will be held on 21 July at Tokyo National Museum.
●Communications and Publicity
T he IRCI Website has been renewed in March 2018 with the aim of posting new
information and presenting the outcomes of our research projects widely and clearly.
The new website is also smartphone and tablet device friendly in design and content.
IRCI also published the following publications in FY 2017 in order to disseminate
information and the achievements of its activities.
１. B rochure of IRCI (in Japanese and English)
２.

P roceedings of the International Symposium on Glocal Perspectives on Intangible

Displaying panels at the symposium(Tokyo National Museum, Japan, June 2017)

Cultural Heritage: Local Communities, Researchers, States and UNESCO
３. R
 eport of the International Symposium “Negotiating Intangible Cultural Heritage”
４. P reliminary Research on ICH Safeguarding and Disaster Risk Management in the Asia-Pacific Region: Project Report for FY 2016-2017 (PDF
version)Brochure of
IRCI (English)

Brief History

Proceedings of theInternational
Symposium on
Glocal Perspectives on
Intangible
Cultural Heritage:
Local Communities,
Researchers, States
and UNESCO

Oct . 2009  : Establishment of IRCI authorized at the UNESCO General Conference
Aug. 2010: ‌Agreement for the establishment of IRCI concluded between theJapanese Government and UNESCO
Mar. 2011:   Agreement‌for the opening of IRCI concluded between Sakai City and
the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage
Apr . 2011:   Establishment of the preparatory office for IRCIOct. 2011:   Official opening of IRCI

Report of theInternational
Symposium“Negotiating Intangible
Cultural
Heritage”

Facilities
Buildings（m2）
Building Area
Gross Floor Area

Number of Rooms

244.67244.67
4※The Building is provided by Sakai City, Osaka Prefecture

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201824

Ⅴ Reference Materials
Special Advisory Board（As of April 1, 2018, titles omitted）
We have a board of special advisors, consisting of professionals drawn from outside the institutes, to gather various opinionsfrom many fields concerning the management of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage. The mission of the Board of Special Advisors is to discuss important issues about the management of the Institutes and give advice to the Chairperson of theBoard. The number of board members is set at 20, and each member serves renewable 2-year terms.
ANDO Hiroyasu: President, Japan Foundation

TANABE Ikuo: President, Osaka Center for Cultural Heritage

IMAMURA Mineo: Professor Emeritus, National Museum of

DAN Fumi: Actress

Japanese History: Emeritus Proffessor,

NISHITAKATSUJI Nobuyoshi: H ead Priest, Dazaifu Tenman-

The Graduade Univeisity for Advanced
Studies
UEHARA Mahito: Executive Director, Tatsuuma Archeological Museum
KAMII Monsho: Head Priest, Byodoin Temple
KARAIKE Koji: ‌Representative Director and Chairman of theBoard, Kyushu Railway Company
KINOSHITA Naoyuki: P rofessor, Graduate School of Humani-gu Shrine
FUJII Joji: Professor Emeritus, Kyoto University
FURUSE Natsuko: Professor, Faculty of Core Research Humanities Division, Ochanomizu University
YANAGIHARA Masaki: P resident, Independent Administrative Institution National Museum ofArt
YAMAMOTO Shinichiro: Grand Steward, Imperial Household
Agencyties and Sociology, University of Tokyo
SATO Teiichi: ‌Former Permanent Delegate of Japan to UNESCOSHIMIZU Mazumi: Executive Director, Mitsui Memorial Museum

External Evaluation Board（As of April 1, 2018, titles omitted）
Besides implementing self-evaluation of the Institutes’ operational, survey and research performance, The National Institutes for
Cultural Heritage have also established an External Evaluation Board of external experts to verify the Institutes’ assessment of
their own performance.（Renewable 2-year terms）
ISHIKAWA Hideshi: Professor, School of Arts and Letters,
Meiji University
OGASAWARA Naoshi: P resident, Avantia GP
OKADA Yasuyoshi: Professor, Institute for Cultural Studies
of Ancient Iraq, Kokushikan University
KAWAI Masatomo: E xecutive Director, Chiba City Museum ofArt
KOJIMA Kaoru: D epartment of Aesthetics and Art History,
Faculty of Humanities Professor, Jissen
Women’s University
KOMATSU Taishu: D irector, Akita Senshu Museum of Art
SAITO Tsutomu: Professor, Research Department, National
Museum of Japanese History
SAKAEHARA Towao: D irector, Osaka Museum of History
SAKAMOTO Hiroko: R epresentative of the Nagoya Main
Branch, The Asahi Shimbun Company
SAKAKIBARA Satoru: D irector, Okazaki City Museum

25

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018TERASAKI Yasuhiro: Professor, faculty of letters, Nara University
TERADA Yoshitaka: Professor, National Museum of Ethnology
NAGOYA Akira: Vice Director, The Gotoh Museum
HAMADA Hiroaki: Professor, J. F. Oberlin University
YANAGIBAYASHI Osamu: F ormer Member of the Editorial
Board, The Yomiuri Shimbun

BudgetFiscal Year 2018 Budget
Revenue（Unit: JPY1,000）

SourceFiscal 2018

Fiscal 2017

Self-generated Income

1,677,155

1,575,706

Government funding for operating expenses

8,808,027

8,325,430

Income from commissioned projects

617,802587,444

Grant for facilities improvement

405,044

1,779,609

Others (Donations, etc.)

542,212439,574

Total

12,050,240

12,707,763

Expenditure（Unit: JPY1,000）
PurposeFiscal 2018

Operational expenses

Fiscal 2017
10,485,182

9,901,136

Personnel

3,499,389

3,448,128

Supply costs

6,985,793

6,453,008

Expenses for commissioned projects

617,802587,444

Facility improvement

405,044

1,779,609

Others (Donations, etc.)

542,212439,574

Total

12,050,240

12,707,763

Income from External Sources
Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research①

Fiscal 2018

Number of
projects
National Institutes
for Cultural Heritage
Secretariat②

Multi-year Fund Fiscal 2018

AmountNumber of projects（Unit：JPY1,000）

0

0

0

Amount（Unit: JPY1,000）（０）0Funding forCommissioned Work
（Fiscal 2017）
Number of
projects

Research Grants（Fiscal 2017）

Amount（Unit: JPY1,000）

1

72,343

Number of
projects

Amount（Unit: JPY1,000）

1

150,000
41,118

Tokyo National Museum

942,5109（１）

10,1792

42,595

4

Kyoto National Museum

1

4,810

5

（０）

4,550

1

956

1

350

Nara National Museum

1

10,400

4

（０）

3,900

0

0

3

9,000

Kyushu National Museum

327,430

4

（０）

4,810

1

12,114

1

600

Tokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

9

22,56019（２）

24,114

11

138,2411

3,000

Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

15

73,71039（０）49,01032

261,00612

9,347International ResearchCentre for Intangible
Cultural Heritage in the
Asia-Pacific Region

0

0

1

（０）

1,430

1

51,6830038

181,42081（３）97,99349

578,938

23

213,415

Total※The amount of ① is the appropriation amount as of April, 2018.
※In the case of projects that extend over multiple fiscal years, the amount given under ② shows the amount allocated to that year when the decision to provide
the grant was first made.
※With regard to research topics for which both ① and ② were awarded (partial funding), the number of projects is included under the respective totals for ① and ②;
the figure given in parentheses for ② is the number of projects for which both types of Grants-in-Aid were awarded. Please note that the figures given include
indirect expenses.
※Funding for commissioned work excludes commissions from the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage.

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201826

Ⅵ Information about Donation and Membership○Financial Donations and Cultural Property Donations【Financial Donations】

Independent Administrative Institutions are mainly administered through national grants for operational costs and facilities improvement.
However, difficult financial conditions and the streamlining of operations makes it necessary to receive outside funds as well. The National
Institutes for Cultural Heritage is no exception and we also need to secure other funding sources besides income from admission fees. For
these reasons, we welcome financial support from a wide range of organizations and individuals.
The National Institutes for Cultural Heritage has been designated by the National Tax Agency as a Special Public-Interest Promotion
Corporation. This means that donations to our institutions（by organizations or individuals）are eligible for more generous income and corporate
tax deductions than donations to regular private entities.

▲

Income tax

When donating to a Special Public-Interest Promotion Corporation, individuals can deduct part of this donation from their taxable income,using either the “Donation Deduction” system or the “Tax Credit” system, whichever is more beneficial to that particular individual.
A FY2010 amendment to the tax law reduced the minimum annual tax-deductible donation amount from 5,000 yen to 2,000 yen, so any
individual who donates more than 2,000 yen annually to Special Public-Interest Promotion Corporations will be eligible for a tax deduction. As
a result, a donor will be able to deduct a donation amount of up to 40% of total income（minus 2,000 yen）when calculating income tax.
*Please note that tax deductions for donations may also be available with respect to individual Resident Tax, depending on the regulations
adopted by the local authority for the area where the individual taxpayer is officially resident.

▲

Corporate tax

When donating to a Special Public-Interest Promotion Corporation, corporate entities can count the donation amount as a deductible expense
separate from other general donations. Furthermore, the reform of the tax system in 2011 raised the ceiling for the amount of donations that
could be included as deductible expenses. As a result, the maximum amount of donations that can be counted as special deductible expenses =（amount of capital × 0.375（formerly 0.25）+ 6.25% of income（formerly 5%））× 1/2 (Where the business year covers a period of less than
one full calendar year, the calculation must be performed on a pro-rata basis according to a specified number of months. Also, please note thatthe calculation formula is different in the case of corporations that do not have capital stock (such as NPOs, etc.)【Cultural Property Donations】

The National Institutes for Cultural Heritage is engaged in the preservation, management, research and display of cultural properties. In
addition to purchasing these cultural properties systematically, we also accept donations from individuals or organizations.

For further information about donations, please contact the following departments:

Institution

Financial Donations

Cultural Property Donations

Phone Numbers

Tokyo National Museum

Accounting, Administration
Department

Collections Management,
Curatorial Research Department

03-3822-1111

Kyoto National Museum

Financial Affairs

Department of Registration andImage Archives

075-541-1151

Nara National Museum

Accounts

Curatorial Division, Planning
Section0742-22-7772
0742-22-7774

Kyushu National Museum

Financial Affairs, General Affairs
Division

Collection Registration, Cultural
Properties Division092-918-2807

Tokyo National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

Department of Research Support and Promotion, Planning Section

03-3823-2249

Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural
Properties

Department of Research Support and Promotion, Administration Division0742-30-3916

General Affairs Section

072-275-8050

National Institutes for Cultural Heritage Secretariat, Financial Affairs

03-3822-2439

International ResearchCentre for Intangible Cultural
Heritage in the Asia-PacificRegion (IRCI)
Inquiries not specifying
institutions

27

Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 2018

○MembershipTokyo National Museum, Nara National Museum and Kyushu National Museum are supported by the Supporting Member System,
while Kyoto National Museum is supported by the Seifukai Association.
To encourage people to visit our museums more frequently, Tokyo National Museum, Kyoto National Museum, Nara National
Museum and Kyushu National Museum have all established their own membership systems. In addition, to mark the 10th
anniversary of the establishment of the National Institutions for Cultural Heritage, a new “National Museums Members Pass”
system was established in 2017, which applies to all four National Museums. We welcome new members at any time of the year.
Tokyo National Museum

Kyoto National Museum

Name
AnnualMembership
Fee

Nara National Museum

Kyushu National Museum

National Museum Members Pass
Regular2,000 Yen (tax included)

Student

1,000 Yen (tax included)

Permanent
Exhibitions

Tokyo National Museum: Regular Exhibitions
Kyoto National Museum: Collection Galleries
Nara National Museum: Exhibition from the Permanent Collection
Kyushu National Museum: Cultural Exchange Exhibition• On showing your Members Pass, you can view any of these permanent exhibitions
an unlimited number of times (this applies only to the person in whose name theMembers Pass is registered)Special
Exhibitions

Members Pass holders can view special exhibitions held at any of the four National
Museums an unlimited number of times at a specially discounted ticket price.
• On showing your Members Pass at a National Museum ticket office, you can purchasea special exhibition ticket at the group ticket price (this applies only to the person inwhose name the Members Pass is registered)• Students can purchase a special exhibition ticket at the student price, which is thesame as the group ticket price (this applies only to the person in whose name theMembers Pass is registered)SpecialPrivileges

How to Apply

You can apply for a Members Pass at one of the National Museum ticket offices, or bypost, using postal remittance.

For More Information

General Affairs Section General Affairs Section
General Affairs Section
Membership System
Business Promotion
General Affairs Section
Planning Officer
Manager
Officer
092-918-2807
0742-22-4450
03-3822-1111
075-541-1151

Campus Members System

Each of the four National Museums has its own membership programs for universities and colleges. These programs are aimed
at deepening cooperation with institutions of higher education and providing opportunities for their students to become familiar
with the National Museums. Members can enjoy various privileges, including free admission to regular exhibitions, for a yearly
membership fee corresponding to the number of students.

○Venue Rental

Each of the National Museums makes its facilities available as unique venues for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences andExhibitions) events. From corporate parties to international conventions, the museum facilities can be used for a wide range ofactivities.

○Diversifying Visitor Experiences

To diversify visitor experiences, opening hours at the national museums are extended on Fridays and Saturdays, and various
nighttime events are held. Efforts are being taken to facilitate understanding for foreign tourists, such as adding multilingual
information labels and audio guides at exhibition galleries, namely in English, Chinese and Korean.

Tohaku BEER NIGHT! Activity (Tokyo National
Museum)Kyuhaku Night ★ Fantasia (Kyushu National
Museum)Outline of the National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, 201828

Tokyo National Research Institutefor Cultural Properties

JR U
gu
Statiisudanion

National Institutes for
Cultural Heritage Secretariat

International
Library ofWest Gate
Children’s
Literature
KurodaMemorial Hall
◀ To Tokyo
Metro Nezu
StationTOKYO NATIONAL
MUSEUM
Main Gate

National Museum of
Nature and Science

Tokyo Metropolitan
Art Museum

Fountain
Police Box

Ueno park

Tokyo Metropolitan
Festival HallPark Exit

JR UenoStationUeno Zoo

National Museumof Western Art

N

Tokyo Metro
Ueno Station

Keisei Ueno
StationAccess:
JR Line: 10 min. from Ueno or Uguisudani Station
Ginza or Hibiya Tokyo Metro Line: 15 min. from Ueno Station
Chiyoda Tokyo Metro Line: 15 min. from Nezu Station
Keisei Line: 15 min. from Keisei Ueno Station

13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-8712
Phone: +81-3-3822-1196

URL: http://www.nich.go.jp/